(2016 - 2020) For The Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry ...faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/mat159356.pdf ·...

Strategic Plan

(2016 - 2020)

For

The Food Crop, Livestock and

Forestry Sectors

January 2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACRONYMS i

FORWORD 1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2

1. INTRODUCTION 7

1.1 Overview of Agriculture 7 1.2 Non-sugar crop sub-sector 7 1.3 Livestock sub-sector 8 1.4 Agro-Processing 10 1.5 Forestry and Biodiversity 11

2. STRATEGIC PLAN MAIFS FOR 2016 - 2020 15

2.1 Preamble 15 2.2 Overall policy 16 2.3 Vision and Mission of MAIFS 16 2.4 Overall Goal 16 2.5 Expected results to be achieved 16 2.6 Some principles to guide the plan forward 17

3. NON- SUGAR CROPS 19

3.1 Introduction 19 3.2 A SWOT of the Non-Sugar crops sub-sector 19 3.3 Key strategic orientations 20 3.4 Strategies and Intervention Areas 21 3.5 Commodities 25 3.6 Agro-processing 34 3.7 Sustainable Agriculture 35 3.8 Bio-farming 35 3.9 Permaculture 36 3.10 Plant Protection 37 3.11 Agricultural Biotechnology 37 3.12 Irrigation 38 3.13 Marketing 39 3.14 Supply of planting materials 39

4. LIVESTOCK SECTOR 40

4.1 Background 40 4.2 Analysis of the current situation 40 4.3 Dairy 41 4.4 Beef 41 4.5 Pig 41 4.6 Goat/Sheep 42 4.7 Venison 42 4.8 Poultry 43 4.9 Rabbit 43 4.10 Fodder production 44 4.11 Apiculture 44 4.12 SWOT analysis at the sub-sector level 44 4.13 Emerging challenges 45 4.14 Constraints and problems of farmers 46 4.15 The case of Venison 46 4.16 Opportunities for improving self-sufficiency 47 4.17 Priority issues and strategic intervention areas for the Livestock sector 47 4.18 Sustainable livestock production 51

5. FORESTRY 53

5.1 The current situation of Forestry 53 5.2 The value of the forest sector 53

5.3 Carbon Sequestration and Greenhouse effect 53 5.4 Economic Functions 54 5.5 Social Functions 54 5.6 Policy, Legislation and International Conventions 54 5.7 Main Legislation for the Protection of Forests 54 5.8 International Conventions, Agreements and Co-operation 55 5.9 Forest management 55 5.10 Native Forest 55 5.11 Plantation Forest 56 5.12 Silviculture 56 5.13 The Forestry Service 56 5.14 Strategy 2016-2020 57

6. BIODIVERSITY 61

6.1 Overview 61 6.2 The National Parks and Conservation Service (NPCS) 61 6.3 International Conventions 62 6.4 NPCS action 62 6.5 The Vallée d’Osterlog Endemic Garden 62 6.6 Invasive Alien Species 62 6.7 Strategy for management of invasive species 63 6.8 Updating the current NBSAP 63 6.9 Agro-biodiversity 64

7. CROSS-CUTTING ISSUES 66

7.1 Climate Change 66 7.2 Agricultural Land Management 70 7.3 Research and Advisory Services 72 7.4 Training of Farmers 73 7.5 2014 Census of Agriculture 73 7.6 Agricultural Production and Market Information 74 7.7 ICT for effective agricultural knowledge management 74 7.8 Mechanisation 75 7.9 Gender 75 7.10 Youth 75

8. INSTITUTIONS 76

8.1 Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security (MAIFS). 76 8.2 Service Delivery Improvement 80 8.3 Consolidated databases 80 8.4 Monitoring and Evaluation 81

9. LEGISLATION 82

9.1 Legislation in the non-sugar crop sub-sector 82 9.2 Livestock legislation 84 9.3 Legislation for Forestry and Biodiversity 85

10. INTERNATIONAL & REGIONAL COLLABORATION 86

11. WAY AHEAD 88

11.1 Risks and Assumptions 88 11.2 Communication and Visibility 88 11.3 Steering and Coordination 88 11.4 End word 89

Implementation Plan 90

Annex 1 93109

Annex 2 110

12. REFERENCES 112

i

ACRONYMS

ACP African-Caribbean-Pacific

AFD Agence Française de Développement

AI Artificial Insemination

AnGR Animal Genetic Resources

AMB Agricultural Marketing Board

APD Animal Production Division

APMIS Agricultural Production & Market Information System

AS Agricultural Services

AU-IBAR African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources

CAADP Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme

CBD Convention on Biological Diversity

CCU Co-operative Credit Unions

CIF Cost Insurance Freight

CIRAD Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique

pour le Développement

CITES Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species

COLEACP Europe-Africa Caribbean-Pacific Liaison Committee

COMESA Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa

COP Code of Practices

CSO Civil Society Organisation

DCCB Dangerous Chemicals Control Board

DUS Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability

DVS Division of Veterinary Services

EDF European Development Fund

ESA Environmentally Sensitive Area

EU European Union

FAO Food and Agriculture Organization

FAREI Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute

FOB Free On Board

FORIP Field Operations, Regrouping and Irrigation Project

FSFSP Food Security Fund Strategic Plan

GAP Good Agricultural Practice

GDP Gross Domestic Product

GEF-SGP Global Environment Facility-Small Grants Programme

GHG Green House Gases

GI Glycemic Index

GIS Geographic Information System

GMO Genetically Modified Organism

GoM Government of Mauritius

HBS Household Budget Survey

IA Irrigation Authority

IAEA International Atomic Energy Agency

IAS Invasive Alien Species

ICT Information & Communication Technology

IDPM Integrated Disease & Pest Management

ii

IFAD International Fund for Agricultural Development

INDC Intended Nationally Determined Contributions

IOC Indian Ocean Commission

IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

IPM Integrated Pest Management

IPNS Integrated Plant Nutrient System

IPR Intellectual Property Rights

IRS Integrated Resort Scheme

ISO International Organisation for Standardisation

IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature

MAIFS Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security

MDF Model Dairy Farm

MDG Millennium Development Goals

MoESDDBM Ministry of Environment, Sustainable Development, and Disaster

and Beach Management

MID Maurice Ile Durable

MITD Mauritius Institute of Training & Development

MMA Mauritius Meat Authority

MSB Mauritius Standards Bureau

MQA Mauritius Qualifications Authority

MSAW Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare

MUR Mauritian Rupee

MWF Mauritian Wildlife Foundation

NAPRO National Agricultural Products Regulatory Office

NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan

NCD Non Communicable Disease

NEPAD New Partnership for Africa's Development

NFIDC Net-Food Importing Developing Country

NGO Non Government Organisation

NPCS National Parks and Conservation Service

NPIP Northern Plains Irrigation Project

NPPO National Plant Protection Office

NPVSO National Plant Varieties and Seeds Office

NSA Non-State Actor

NTC National Trade Certificate

OAU Organisation of African Unity

ODL Open Distance Learning

OIE Office International des Epizooties

PAN Protected Area Network

PCM Project Cycle Management

PGRFA Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture

PPP Private Public Partnership

QDS Quality Declared Seed

R&D Research & Development

RBM Results Based Management

RTREBS Rivulet Terre Rouge Estuary Bird Sanctuary

iii

SADC Southern Africa Development Community

SFWF Small Farmers Welfare Fund

SIDS Small Island Developing State

SME Small and Medium Enterprise

SWOT Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats

TCP Technical Cooperation Programme

TIDS Technology Innovation & Diffusion Scheme

UNCCD UN Convention to Combat Desertification

UNDP United Nations Development Programme

UNFCCC UN Framework Convention on Climate Change

UNFF UN Forum on Forests

UoM University of Mauritius

VCA Value Chain Approach

VCU Value for Cultivation and Use

VRS Voluntary Retirement Scheme

WIPO World Intellectual Property Organisation

WTO World Trade Organisation

Strategic Plan 2016 – 2020 for the Non-Sugar Sector 1


EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Agriculture plays an important role in the national economy. Although no more the largest

contributor to national production and wealth, the sector still makes a stable contribution to the

economy.

Traditionally, the non-sugar sector has contributed particularly to food production and has ensured

some measure of food security. Its forestry and biodiversity components are now playing vital roles

in the management of natural resources, and are recognised as significant contributors to sustainable

development and to the mitigation of climate change impacts. Hence, improvement of this sub-sector

is even more beneficial for the country.

Building on the achievements of past strategic plans and based on lessons learned, the Ministry of

Agro-Industry and Food Security has developed its new strategy for the period 2016-2020 using a

participatory approach. The Plan is inspired broadly by the Government Programme 2015-2019, and

has been formulated to take Mauritius to a higher level of food security whilst respecting the need

for safe food and better nutrition of the population. It takes on board the need for sustainable

agricultural development in a climate-friendly mode as well as safeguarding farmers livelihoods.

The Strategy identifies MAIFS’s mission as:

"to enable and facilitate the advancement of agriculture and the agri-business sector for

improved food security and safety in line with requirements for sustainable development, with

support from national service providers and regional stakeholders."

and sets its vision as :

“An integrated development to build vibrant non-sugar agriculture and agri-business sectors

that utilise natural resources sustainably, contribute significantly to national food security

and safety, empower producers to higher productivity, and enhance the welfare of the farming

community.”

The overall goal is to raise the national food security level by maintaining self-sufficiency in those

agricultural products where it is possible and by generating a significant, concomitant increase in

local production of others. This should be achieved through a shift to sustainable agricultural

practices and using methods of production and protection that are eco-friendly but conducive to safer

and better human nutrition.

In line with Government’s vision for bio-food, bio-farming including permaculture and other

variants will be promoted. This would require a drastic change in farmers’ mindset vis-à-vis agro-

chemicals. The following measures are proposed:

Sensitisation of the public on the importance of consuming bio-food, and valuing the difference;

Development of bio-production protocols;

Establishment of dedicated bio-farming zones, and the relevant conditions to be imposed on

land use and crop management;

Training of farmers in production of bio-food production;

Introduction of a bio-farming certificate /label to encourage bio-food production.

Non-sugar crops

The non-sugar crops sub-sector covers foodcrops, fruits and ornamentals and is driven mainly by

8,000 small growers and 375 hydroponic producers. Close to 100% self-sufficiency is achieved for

fresh vegetables and tropical fruits, except for off-season imports of selected vegetables such as

potato, onion and garlic.

For foodcrop production, the shift towards bio-farming will ensure the production of safe and quality

food, with standards and norms defined.


Incentives will encourage the adoption of sustainable practices; clustering of farms; exploitation

of abandoned land; agri-business ventures in processing food for local and export market; cross-

border investment;

R&D in new technologies to increase land productivity and sustainable production and ensure

food and nutrition security; biotechnology and biological inputs in production systems; tools to

address labour shortage, improve post-harvest life and minimise food wastage; addressing

climate change mitigation and adaptation;

Technology exchange, capacity building and effective information and communication

management; support to agro-entrepreneurs through training to identify potential agri-business

and its feasibility; educating farmers about climate change and coping strategies;

Strengthening of marketing and market information services to the farming community;

Promotion of value chain approach, with participation of private sector and governance by

public body; and

Capacity building for adaptation to Climate Change.

Tea is attracting renewed interest. Fresh tea plantations will be supported through release of State

Lands, nursery space for plantlets, and extension support to growers. A contract-growing scheme

will connect growers, processors and promoters.

Production of flowers and ornamentals meet local requirements, with anthurium and orchids also for

export. Demand is growing for cut roses, anthurium, gerbera, chrysanthemum and gladiolus.

Growers will be encouraged to start production on abandoned sugarcane lands, with facilities to set

up nurseries, greenhouses and shadehouses, and for the purchase of tissue-cultured plantlets.

Fruit production consists of pineapple, banana, papaya, passion-fruit and the seasonal litchi and

mango. Pinapple, litchi and passion-fruit hold potential for export and processing for value addition.

Some fruits are also imported, consisting mainly of temperate fruits to meet consumer preferences.

In support of fruit production:

the anti-bird net scheme will be maintained to prevent fruit damage by bats and birds;

fiscal incentives will promote the export of fresh litchi to non-traditional and emerging markets

(Dubai, East Europe, Russia, China, India); and

growers who are adopting self-assessment guides will be assisted to upgrade their production

system for Global GAP certification.

Besides, the fruit production base will be diversified with encouragement to produce pitaya,

breadfruit, emerging fruits (Lemon, Avocado, Longan and Atemoya) and those under-utilised and

lesser-known local fruit species.

Medicinal plants have now grown beyond backyards, and offer new opportunities for commercial

production, processing and marketing. Some production is already on-going, but there is still room

for growth.

With regard to marketing of fruits and vegetables, MAIFS will set up a National Wholesale Market

to improve market efficiency and ensure better transparency. The National Wholesale Market will

managed by AMB.

To facilitate access to planting materials, agro-entrepreneurs and the corporate sector will be

encouraged to undertake the production of Quality Declared Seeds and planting materials for orchard

and ornamental crops.

In support of agro-processing and value-addition, an Agro-processing Park will be set up with the

required facilities (buildings, equipment, mentoring, advisory services, financial services).

Livestock

The Livestock sub-sector has made little progress in recent years, mainly because of high costs of

production, limited access to land and breeding animals, lack of an organised market structure, and

difficulties to comply with environmental regulations. Emerging issues relate to competition from


cheap imports, high cost of quality inputs and the increasing consumer concern over food safety and

animal welfare.

Nevertheless, production levels for poultry, goat/mutton, pork and rabbit reflect a satisfactory

measure of self-sufficiency. More effort is needed to raise self-sufficiency for milk and beef. The

high start-up cost can be a deterrent. Raising of small stock (duck, turkey, rabbit.. ) will thus be

encouraged. In that context, turkey will present an opportunity for diversification once the teething

problems of crossing parent stock is resolved. Opportunities also exist for agro-processing and value

addition.

To achieve better efficiency and effectiveness in serving the small breeders, support services will be

brought together for research, extension, training and veterinary health care. To relieve pressure on

the veterinary services, para-veterinary services will be introduced and farmers will be trained in

basic veterinary care and first-aid for livestock. They will also be sensitised over climate change

issues in livestock rearing, and introduced to adaptation, mitigation and coping strategies,

Access to feed, fodder and breeding animals will be facilitated, and additional livestock zones set up

for farmers operating in clusters.

For marketing, a new slaughterhouse will be set up. A Trade and Marketing Bureau will encourage

farmers to choose formal marketing channels, and thereby help combat illegal slaughter. For local

stock, a match-making service will be run by FAREI to link sellers to buyers and save productive

animals from slaughter. A Livestock Fair will be organised annually. The Bureau will advocate for

the services of a livestock carrier and associated logistics to facilitate the import of live animals for

slaughter as well as weaner cattle.

With regard to biosafety, good hygiene practices, eco-friendly approaches and safety measures will

be enforced by a ‘Police Agricole’, and a programme for certification introduced. A package will be

developed to advance bio-farming, complete with local standards, incentives for producers and

education of consumers over the merits of bio-products.

Forestry

Our forests are invaluable assets harbouring a rich biodiversity, and they protect our watersheds and

environmentally sensitive areas. They need to be protected from degradation, conserved and further

enhanced. Given their new roles in mitigating climate change impacts, management will aim at

increasing our tree cover, and will favour non-consumptive uses and those activities that are

sustainable, less destructive and more rewarding in the long term.

Thus, a tree planting programme is scheduled to increase tree cover throughout the island; existing

legislation and policies will be reviewed to increase tree and forest protection; special care will be

taken of environmentally-sensitive areas such as watershed and steep slopes; biodiversity and eco-

system services will be enhanced; and the general public will be educated on the importance and

value of the trees and forests.

Biodiversity

Invasive alien species are a major cause of bio-diversity loss. A comprehensive programme will

therefore be implemented for their control. In addition, a revised National Biodiversity Strategy and

Action Plan (NBSAP) will be prepared for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use, which will

include mainstreaming its implementation in development frameworks and the valuation of

ecosystem services.

Agro-biodiversity has special significance for the enhancement of productivity in crops and livestock

and as a source of natural resistance to pests and diseases. As such, it can support the drive for bio-

farming and food security, more so under threat of climate change. Adequate resources will be

devoted to advance on-going conservation efforts for both plant and livestock genetic resources.

Climate change

Agriculture is highly vulnerable to climate extremes and climate variability, which results in lower

productivity, crop loss or crop failure. These affect production, prices and farmers’ livelihoods

adversely, and will eventually accentuate our food insecurity. However, agriculture has also the

potential to adapt and mitigate climate change impacts via the practice of Climate-Smart Agriculture.


Accordingly, a Climate Change Working Group will be set at FAREI for concerted actions and to

interface with other agencies responsible for Climate Change. Its first task will be to undertake a

detailed survey of climate impacts, vulnerabilities and coping measures as well as ways to improve

usage of climate information and forecasts.

Information

The Agricultural Production & Market Information System (APMIS) will be upgraded to capitalise

on novel communication tools, namely with data capture at field level using mobile devices and

developing decision-support tools for field officers to advise farmers and entrepreneurs. Besides, it

will be adapted to fit with the forthcoming National Wholesale Market.

There is no estimate of post-harvest losses or food wastage in our agricultural value chains.

Similarly, little information is available on the socio-economic status, income, household food

security and welfare of small farmers. These new information needs will henceforth be addressed.

A long overdue Census of Agriculture was run in 2014 following the previous one in 1940, and will

provide a useful baseline to measure progress. A consolidated report will be available early in 2016.

It would be useful to compare its data with those from current statistics derived largely from

administrative reports. The next one should follow systematically in ten years, and an update should

be run in between.

Land Management

Unutilised lands represent a waste of valuable resources and a missed potential for novel initiatives.

To assist the conservation and optimal utilisation of our limited fertile lands, a Land Bank will be

organised to monitor land use and land use changes. It will also assist MAIFS to manage more

effectively land settlements and other leased areas to ensure compliance with the provisions of lease

agreements. For these, effective use will be made of facilities available for Remote Sensing and GIS

once they are set in working order.

Research

The investment in crop and livestock research must be maintained. Research will now have to

consider sustainability issues, climate-smart practices and higher food safety standards when

deciding its priorities and later when evaluating options for the solution of field problems.

Biofarming will require special attention along all its dimensions.

It is imperative also that the Animal Health research sections at FAREI be fully staffed.

Advisory services

Small-holder farmers and agro-entrepreneurs require advisory services on a regular basis to progress

and stay competitive. FAREI’s extension services, model farms and Training School are deployed to

that effect. However, the ‘one size fits all’ approach must now make way for customised advisory

services, which suit innovative and business-oriented farmers better. Training will extend beyond the

traditional themes into entrepreneurship, climate-smart practices, traceability, food safety and

quality, post-harvest management, MauriGAP and global GAP certification amongst others. The

Open and Distance Learning (ODL) tools recently mastered will be deployed for the benefit of crop

and livestock farmers.

FAREI’s efforts to enlist more women and youth in agriculture have been consistent over the years,

with agro-processing for women and backyard gardening and rearing of small livestock for youth.

These programmes will now be refined to motivate women and youth into real business operations.

Institutional reforms

At institutional level, major changes are anticipated with the conversion of the Agricultural Services

into a Directorate which will focus on policy formulation, control and regulatory functions. The

transition will be overseen by a Re-organisation Committee of key stakeholders to ensure no

disruption in the supply of essential services and inputs to the farming community.


The AMB will continue with its mission but will broaden the scope of its product range, diversify its

sources of supply and extend its outlets across the country. It will in addition manage the facilities at

the forthcoming National Wholesale Market.

More generally, in order to improve management of institutions, this Plan suggests a Service

Improvement Plan for key services to farmers and the public. A consolidated database of farmers and

service-users is also proposed to facilitate access to information between institutions.

In addition, it suggests the adoption of Results-Based Management with pre-defined Monitoring and

Evaluation Plans to make service providers more focused on priorities and more accountable for

results.

Legislation

To provide an up-to-date and effective legal framework in support of development, concerns over

food safety and bio-safety, the new roles of forests and the drive for more sustainable farming, the

legal framework needs to be refreshed.

Priority ones include:

a review of the NAPRO Act 2013 to enable new tea producers to operate and trade on the local

market and consider licensing of producers in speciality areas;

a review of the Chemical Fertilisers Control Act 1980 to extend control to new forms of

fertilizers, composts, inoculants and growth promoters;

a proposal to extend the Dangerous Chemicals Control Act 2004 to cover the import, trade and

usage of alternative pest control products such as bio-pesticides, sprout inhibitors and ripeners,

and to provide for enforcement;

new legislation for Organic Agriculture /bio-farming so as to build the institutional framework

and the appropriate inspection systems;

revision of the Animal Diseases Act 1925 in the light of a gap analysis by the OIE and to cover

production in addition to health aspects;

revision of the Artificial Insemination of Animals (Control) Act 1946 for extending the practice

of artificial insemination to other species and its delivery by private sector entrepreneurs;

changes to the Veterinary Council Act 1991 to allow the delivery of basic animal care by para-

veterinarians and livestock producers; and

amendment to Forests and Reserves Act and Shooting and Fishing Lease Act to improve

oversight of private forest land; stiffen penalties for offences on Reserves and State forest land;

and protect wetlands and biodiversity-rich areas.

Collaborative links

Agriculture-Mauritius has international and regional partners. These links will be strengthened to

advance a number of schemes among which the Seeds Regulations and the development of Mauritius

as a Seed Hub in the region (FAO and IFAD, SADC); the development of an Action Plan for

conservation of freshwater biodiversity (IOC/EU); the improvement of veterinary services (OIE);

improving the quality and availability of surveillance and other animal resources information in the

country (AU-IBAR); the drafting of the CAADP Compact to reduce poverty and enhance food and

nutrition (CAADP); and with (EDES-COLEACP) to enhance food safety via an efficient sanitary

and phytosanitary control system.

Finally, this document describes a framework for implementation of the Plan, including a high-level

Steering Committee to be established under the MAIFS to review progress and evaluation reports,

and provide guidance to MAIFS accordingly.

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Overview of Agriculture

Over the years, the agricultural sector has played a pivotal, economic role and served as a driver in

the development of Mauritius. Since the early 1970s however, the contribution of agricultural

production to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has been declining steadily from around 30% to only

3.4% in 2013, largely as a result of the successful diversification of the economy into the

manufacturing and services sectors. Out of these 3.4%, some 2.2% are generated by the sugar sub-

sector. Nonetheless, the sector still plays a vital, multi-functional role within the economy. It

contributes significantly to GDP in absolute terms, and has significant economic, social and

environmental impacts. In addition, agriculture provides direct employment to some 44,200 persons.

Because of its geographic location and the variety of micro-climates, Mauritius can produce a wide

range of crops and livestock although its agriculture is dominated by sugar-cane cultivation. Thus,

nearly 54,000 ha of agricultural land were devoted to sugar cane production in 2013, with about

8,200 ha under food crops and some 700 ha under tea. Incidentally, 2 ha of tobacco were also

produced, but this commodity has now been phased out completely. But Mauritius is a net food

importer, with imports close to 77% of its food requirements. Indeed, imported agricultural products

were valued at MUR 36.4 billion compared just over MUR 23.6 billion for exports. Main items

imported include wheat, rice, oil, fresh fruits, meat and milk. Over the last 5 years, this gap has been

rising, indicating an increasing dependency on imported food.

Agricultural production activities are undertaken mainly by the corporate sector and a large number

of small producers. Some 8,000 small farmers operate in the crop sector cultivating food-crops on

holdings averaging 0.25 ha, and a small number are now growing fruits and flowers for export

markets. Some have embarked on vertical integration into food processing to add value to their

produce. Around 5,000 are active in the livestock sector producing milk and meat. While the

corporate sector is heavily involved in the sugar sector, it has diversified its portfolio to cover food

crops, venison, poultry, animal feed and processed milk products. It is also estimated that around

50% of agricultural production comes from the corporate sector.

Government of Mauritius and all the stakeholders in the agriculture sector have identified key areas

needing urgent attention in order to boost the sector. These factors include but are not limited to the

following:

Increase investment in modern and innovative agricultural practices;

Promote sustainable agricultural growth;

Improve agricultural diversification and productivity to ensure further food security;

Empower individuals further, particularly the youth and women, to undertake agricultural

activities; and

Strengthen agricultural exports, research and development, and capacity building.

1.2 Non-sugar crop sub-sector

1.2.1 Food crops

Food crop production is dominated by small scale farming and covers a wide range of crops

including potatoes, onion, tomatoes, chillies, crucifers, cucurbits, leafy vegetables, garlic and ginger

which are cultivated on commercial scale whereas fruits mainly come from backyard production.

Although there are a few irrigated networks, food-crop production continues to be largely rain-fed

resulting in surplus vegetable production during the winter months and a shortage in the summer

months. Over the last decade, production of selected crops namely tomato, green pepper and

cucumber have started under soil-less, protected structures. There is also growing interest for

mushroom production.

Generally, some 8,000 small producers cultivating about 8,200 hectares of land produce on average

some 110,000 tonnes of food crops annually, and there is no shortage of fresh vegetables as such on

the local market. Except in cases of drought, cyclones and heavy rains, production amply satisfies

the local consumption.


However, Mauritius imports all its requirement for its main staples, namely some 166,000 tonnes of

wheat and 66,000 tonnes of rice. A limited quantity of rice is now produced for the niche market of

low-glycemic-index rice for local market and export, while wheat production is still at pilot project

stage.

1.2.2 Fruit crops

Fruit production which consists of mainly banana, pineapple, and seasonal fruits such as litchi and

mangoes is estimated at 42,660 tonnes annually, over an equivalent of 3,065 ha of land. Fruits are

produced mainly in backyards. Moreover, there is some corporate sector involvement in the

production of pitaya, litchi, jujube and citrus.

Among the backyard fruits, litchi has achieved some prominence. Exports draw heavily on backyard

production and some existing or newly-established orchards. Potential exists for other under

exploited local fruits such as papaya, passion-fruit, star-fruit and guava for the fresh market or for

processing.

1.2.3 Ornamentals

The ornamental sector now regroups around 100 producers, nursery operators and landscape

designers exploiting 90 to 100 ha of agricultural land, with some 30 engaged in anthurium

production. The main ornamentals currently being grown are anthurium, rose, gerbera,

chrysanthemum and orchids. Anthurium dominates the production followed by rose and gerbera.

Chrysanthemum and orchids are being produced in small quantities. In recent years, producers have

been diversifying towards cut roses for the local market.

1.2.4 Tea

Since the 1990’s the area under production has wound down from 3,028 ha due to lack of

competitiveness and quality for the export market, to reach 672 ha for season 2013/2014. Additional

reasons for the decline in tea cultivation are the ageing workforce and climatic factors; old tea

plantations and lack of seedlings for their maintenance. There were around 1,338 registered tea

growers in 2013 and 3 major tea factories in the country. Although some tea is imported to satisfy

consumer demand, most of the tea consumed is produced locally. However, some niche export

markets have emerged for the local black tea in countries such as Australia, France, Japan, Mayotte,

Reunion, South Africa, Switzerland and United Kingdom.

1.3 Livestock sub-sector

Livestock production is undertaken by some 5,000 farmers mainly in cattle, goat, sheep, pig, deer,

and poultry farming. Milk and dairy products are also an important component of this sub-sector.

The livestock population was estimated in 2014 to comprise of 6,000 cattle, 26,500 goats, 2,000

sheep, 65,000 deer, 17,500 pigs and 2,000 rabbits. These are produced under a variety of systems

ranging from backyards to semi-intensive, commercial intensive, open range and intensive feedlots.

There is also a small component in the livestock sector comprising of apiculture, i.e. honey

production of some 35 tonnes annually from about 240 bee-keepers.

1.3.1 Cattle

The cattle population is estimated to around 6,000 heads. Local production in 2014 stood at 89.9

tonnes of meat and 5 million litres of milk. Mauritius has its own indigenous breed known as Creole

breed, also known as Vache Creole, characterised by white colour, absence of hump and its

polledness; and best categorised as dual-purpose, used for milk and meat production. But the current

cattle population is made up mostly of cross-breds between the indigenous Creole and exotic breeds

such as Friesian and the recently introduced Jersey.

1.3.1.1 Dairying

The local dairy sector produces mainly fresh milk for direct consumption. Fresh milk production is

quite limited, with annual production at about 5 million litres. This represents merely 4% of the

overall country’s needs for milk and milk by-products.

Most farms are small (up to 20 heads) with animals reared in the backyard, in total confinement and

stall-fed system under the cut-and-carry system whereby fodder is collected by roadsides, forests or


marginal lands. The system is a low-input-low-output system of production. Small-holder dairy

farmers sell their milk mostly at farm gate directly to consumers and intermediaries. A few sell their

milk to private companies, who then pasteurise the milk and sell it in milk pouches to shops and

supermarkets.

However, two large intensive farms have started since 2009 with over 100 heads, operating with

modern, technical management. Milk is either sold to a processing plant or sold as pasteurized milk,

fresh cream and ice cream.

One company recently tried marketing UHT-treated milk in tetra-pack, but the project has not taken

off.

1.3.1.2 Beef

The beef sector may be categorised as fattening of calves from dairy farms or fattening of imported

animals or from beef-type breeding farms. Beef meat is either from local animals (mainly Friesian

and Creole, Brahford or crosses) or imported Zebu types from Rodrigues, South Africa, Kenya and

Australia. Beef is consumed by about 48% of the local population and is marketed as fresh, chilled,

frozen or processed meat. Fresh beef meat is from both local and imported animals and processed

bovine meat (including buffalo) are purchased mainly from Australia, South Africa and India.

1.3.2 Goat & Sheep

Around 29,500 goats and sheep are reared for meat. Based solely on animals slaughtered at the

abattoir, production in 2014 was estimated at 28.1 tonnes. This is mainly a part-time activity, with a

wide range of farm sizes, the rearing system and management levels practiced on the farms. While a

few farms carry more than 100 heads, most are small with less than 20 heads. In the common rearing

system, practiced mostly by the small to medium farms, the animals are raised in backyards, in total

confinement and stall-fed. The system is characterized by the cut-and-carry system whereby fodder

is collected by roadsides, forests or marginal lands. On medium to large farms, animals are a semi-

confined system with grazing in marginal lands as well as stall-feeding and feed supplementation.

Goat meat is consumed by all ethnical groups, and demand peaks during the end of year festivities

and other celebrations.

1.3.3 Pig

A total of some 17,500 heads are raised by 450 primary producers in the pork industry, with more

than 90% of them engaged in both fattening and breeding, 8% in fattening only and 2% in breeding

only. Most primary producers operate a low external input system mainly in backyard in the rural

and coastal regions. For health and environmental reasons, many had to be relocated to specialised

zones, namely at St Martin & Bassin Requin. The Census of 2008 reported that 75% operate on a

full-time basis. A few large breeders operate on an intensive, professional basis. Following an

outbreak of the African Swine Fever in 2007, various initiatives were taken to boost this sector, more

farmers operating sub-urban areas were relocated in these zones, fresh animals introduced,

infrastructure upgraded and some farmers were encouraged to specialise in pig reproduction farms.

The pig sector production mainly pork as fresh meat. About 8500 pigs with a total carcass weight of

557 tonnes were slaughtered at the Central Abattoir in 2014, and the country is practically self-

sufficient in fresh pork. Around 25% of the local production is used for processing. Nonetheless, in

2013 about 850 tonnes of choice cuts were imported for processing as well as 1,200 tonnes of pre-

processed pork.

1.3.4 Poultry and eggs

1.3.4.1 Poultry

The livestock sector in Mauritius is dominated by poultry (broiler chicken and eggs) for which self-

sufficiency has been reached since a few decades. Poultry (meat) production stands at 47,000 tonnes

annually, with 65% being sold as frozen (whole carcasses and cuts) and the difference as fresh

produce. About 85% of the poultry meat is presently produced by four industrial farms, 10% by

small commercial farms, and around 5% by family (backyard) producers. There is now a flourishing

broiler production industry along with a relatively insignificant traditional, backyard production of

indigenous chicken. Lately, production has started for ‘poulet fermier’ under range systems.


1.3.4.2 Eggs

Egg production is undertaken by some 250 operators rearing around 950,000 layers and producing

around 145 million eggs. The small scale farmers rearing less than 5,000 layers account for around

15% of the total eggs produced. One vertically integrated company supplies more than 40% of the

eggs produced and is also supplying liquid eggs.

1.3.5 Venison

Deer farming has established itself as a full-fledged economic activity and a major contributor to the

livestock sector. Venison has become the source of red meat with the decline of local cattle

production. Most of the venison comes from around 58 chassés, and the total land area occupied by

the deer sector amounts to 25,000 ha of which 15,000 ha are privately-owned land with a population

of 35,000 heads and 10,000 ha on leased State forest land carrying 20,000 heads. Some 10,000 heads

are also reared in intensive farms on 1,000 ha. The total production of venison is marketed without

problems on the local market with a per capita consumption standing at 0.5 kg/annum for 2014.

Most of the deer meat is put on the market exclusively during hunting season, which runs from June

to September. About 15 tonnes of good quality meat are produced during the closed season from

intensive farms, with carcasses being processed at the Central Abattoir and marketed by a private

marketing company on behalf of Mauritius Deer Farming Cooperative Society.

1.4 Agro-Processing

Agro-processing addresses the seasonal nature and the variability of local vegetable and fruit

production as well as their perishability. It stimulates demand for primary agricultural products to be

processed. It adds value by vertically integrating primary production and minimises post-harvest

losses and food wastage; reduces marketing risks; and impacts positively on farm incomes,

employment and foreign exchange earnings. Agro-processing provides a business opportunity that

contributes to improving human nutrition; generating employment and mainstreaming women in the

agricultural sector. There exist a certain number of agro-processing activities in both crops and

livestock sub-sectors.

1.4.1 Crop sub-sector

Pickles (fruits and vegetables) in oil and spices; pickle in brine; sweet and sour; paste (e.g. chilli

paste, fruit and chilli paste, garlic paste, etc); sauces and chutney.

Sugar-based products: crystallised fruits and vegetables, candied fruits, jam and jelly,

marmalade; fruit paste/fruit leather; juice; cordial and syrup.

Canning: fruit in syrup; puree and canned vegetables.

Deep-fried products: chips (banana, potato, cassava, taro, etc.)

Flour: breadfruit, banana, etc.

Dehydrated products/powder: spices and herbs; fruits/vegetables.

Frozen: Frozen fruits and vegetables; Frozen snacks & Frozen herbs

Minimal processing: minimally processed fruits and vegetables (whole/ diced/sliced) using

different types of packaging e.g. cling film, punnets, vacuum packed)

1.4.2 Livestock sub-sector

Dairy products: Sago milk; ‘fenousse’; paneer; yogurt; cheese (includes feta, mozzarella);

pasteurised milk and ice-cream.

Meat products: sausages/ burgers, polony, ham, salami, nuggets, sticks, poultry/pig marinated

cuts.

1.4.3 Opportunities in Agro-Processing

There is a need to identify markets where Mauritius has comparative advantage such as niche

markets for ethnic /exotic foods to capitalise on the wide variety of exotic primary commodities

available, many of which are amenable to agro-processing. The process of making jams, jellies, fruit


nectars and other beverages is well established but now requires up-scaling, innovation and

improvement in packaging and marketing to tap new markets.

The tourism industry represents an interesting market perspective where tourists are exposed to local

processed products and can publicise them once at home.

Algae-based processed product /local small onion are niche markets that can be exploited with

the proper investment/support.

The banana tree and fruit have potential for added-value in handicraft besides chips and other

processed products.

The local onion 'toupie' variety has promising potential as processed product.

Dehydrated tropical fruits have good potential both for the local and export sectors. In the local

market it can address nutritional problem of low consumption of fruits among our youth.

1.4.4 Agro-Processing Resource Center

In line with the Ministry's thrust towards agro industry development, FAREI has developed a R&D

programme dedicated to agro-processing. Recognising the need for small entrepreneurs to test their

ideas/products before investing heavily in production equipment, FAREI has set up a fully-equipped

resource center to service the needs of entrepreneurs interested in the agro processing and value

addition sector. The center is also used for conducted tours and serves as a model agro-processing

unit. It is operational since July 2009.

1.5 Forestry and Biodiversity

1.5.1 Forestry

The total extent of forest cover in Mauritius was estimated at 47,103 ha representing about 25% of

the total land area in 2014. Our forests have suffered from indiscriminate clearing for agriculture,

timber production, sugar cane plantation, human settlement and other infrastructures. The native

forests which originally covered most of the island have almost completely disappeared except for a

few inaccessible areas, which have been spared the onslaught of deforestation. These areas have now

been converted to national parks, nature reserves or other protected areas. Large areas of degraded,

upland native forests have since been re-afforested with fast growing exotics that form the bulk of

the forest plantations. The upland plantations produce limited timber but have a vital role in soil

conservation and for water conservation both for agriculture and domestic purposes. Their roles in

mitigating the effects of climate change are now being realised.

There are only two types of forest ownership in Mauritius: public and private. Around 22,103 ha are

state-owned and 25,000 ha are on private lands, out of which 6,540 ha are legally protected as

Mountain and River Reserves. There are thus more forests under private ownership but the growing

stock is more in the state-owned forest plantations than in the privately-owned forests.

With regard to forests products, Mauritius imports most of its hardwood requirements. In 2014,

Mauritius imports of forestry and logging products represented MUR 150 million. Local forests

supplied only 5-10% of local demand for utility timber. Besides wood, there were non-wood

products consisting mainly of venison, feral monkeys, fruits, fibres and medicinal plants. Due to

limited land resources, timber exploitation in Mauritius is set to be phased out, and the focus shifted

to conservation, non-consumptive uses and sustainable forest management.

1.5.2 Biodiversity

Mauritius has a rich biodiversity in its flora and fauna. It has an equally rich coastal zone of wetlands

and mangroves, lagoon corals and fringing coral reefs; and its rivers and streams, several man-made

reservoirs, natural lakes and marshy areas. However, Mauritius has one of the most threatened floras

in the world.

It has a diverse marine environment with its different reef types and species of corals, species of fish

among which many are of economic importance, shrimps, octopus, mussels, oysters, barnacles and

clams, marine algae, marine mammals and some dolphins. Biodiversity is here under pressure, and

fishing reserves and marine parks have been established for conservation purposes. Biodiversity is


under threat in Mauritius and its offshore islets, but the marine eco-system around St Brandon is still

virtually intact.

Wetlands provide many ecosystem services but they also are subject to pressure from development

projects, and are thus closely monitored.

1.5.3 Agro-biodiversity

Agro-biodiversity is linked to production and food security. But emphasis on high-yielding varieties

and breeds has narrowed the genetic base and may pose serious threat to long-term food security,

more so under climatic change. Therefore since 1995 the Plant Genetic Resources Unit of the

Agricultural Services started the collection and conservation of local germplasm for food and

agriculture, local fruits, medicinal plants and ornamentals, and wild relatives of cultivated crops in

its seed-bank and field gene-bank. By way of animal genetic resources, FAREI holds only a small

herd of Creole cattle.

1.5.4 Recent developments in the non-sugar sector

With regard to the non-sugar sector, the Food Security Strategic Plan 2013-2015 was prepared as a

continuation to the previous strategic plans to improve the level of national self-sufficiency in

various commodities, promote exports and create new opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs and

rural families to increase farm income and productivity, to provide safe, sufficient and nutritious

food while conserving the natural biodiversity and mindful of the environment. The expected

outcome was increased local production of all non-sugar crops [food crops, vegetables, fruits] by 1%

to 2 % annually to meet increasing demand from Mauritian consumers and visiting tourists. For

livestock, the aim was to increased local production of meat, milk and derived products by up to 5 %

annually.

1.5.4.1 Non-sugar crops

A number of schemes were implemented for the non-sugar crop sector as follows :

1. Rain Water Harvesting Scheme

This scheme encouraged crop/livestock farmers to harvest rainwater to optimize use of water

resources. It provided partial funding as grant for the acquisition of appropriate equipment to

collect, store and supply rainwater on-farm for agricultural production solely, and light

structures for collection of rain-water.

2. Sheltered Farming Scheme

It encouraged farmers to shift from traditional open-field cultivation to sheltered farming so as

to help them mitigate the effect of adverse climatic conditions as well as to improve their

production capacity as well as the quality of farm produce.

3. Crop Nursery (Curing Scheme)

This scheme aimed at assisting vegetable growers to improve their capacity for production of

planting materials and to enhance the quality of harvested produce by providing partial

funding as grant for the construction of nursery-cum-curing units.

4. Purchase of Agricultural/ Processing Equipment

The Purchase of Agricultural/ Processing Equipment encouraged planters to acquire farm

machinery/ equipment to mechanise their production systems and also to venture in food-

processing or other activities for value-addition.

5. Seed Potato/ Onion/Garlic Purchase Scheme

The seed purchase scheme was meant for small planters to help them meet the significant,

high financial cost involved in the purchase of seeds for potato, onion and garlic.

6. Agricultural Calamities Solidarity Scheme (ACASS)

This scheme ensured the sustainability of small farmers by mitigating the effects of crop

losses/death of animals caused due to natural calamities


7. Compost Subsidy Scheme

The objective of this scheme was to assist farmers in reducing production costs and the use of

chemical fertilizers with a view to simultaneously improving the quality of their land, and

hence promote sustainable agriculture. Locally-produced organic compost (about one

tonne/arpent/year) was granted free-of-charge to registered planters under this scheme.

8. Freight Rebate Scheme

The objective was to promote the export of various agricultural products grown in Mauritius

and increase local production of specific fruits, vegetables and flowers.

9. Fruit Protection Scheme

This scheme aims at addressing the bat problem and to ensure adequate protection of harvests

for seasonal fruits.

10. Family Farming Micro-Project Scheme

This scheme was to encourage families/households to develop and sustain production of

vegetable, fruit and other horticultural products with minimal processing. However, due to

administrative issues early during its implementation, the scheme was abandoned.

Outcome :

Total Food crop Production in year 2014: 117, 000 tonnes

Self-sufficient in all the major fresh vegetables and local fruits.

Self-sufficiency in onion has been around 40% in 2014

Potato self-sufficiency has reached 88% in 2014

Garlic self-sufficiency is at 18% in 2014

Despite these schemes, some constraints still prevailed, namely the unavailability of agricultural

land, high input prices, labour scarcity and the high cost of production. To go around these problems

and move forward, the proposals were to release land for agricultural development; to implement the

incentive schemes under the Food Security Programme; to promote good agricultural practices

(GAP) and the adoption of new technology packages to ensure quality of produce; and to promote of

value-addition through agro-processing.

1.5.4.2 Livestock

Among the schemes set out to boost the livestock sector and ensure a better measure of self-

sufficiency were the following:

1. Cattle Breeding Scheme to help livestock breeders to purchase heifer, pregnant heifer or cows

of genetically improved breeds.

2. Goat Multiplier Farms Scheme to enable breeders to purchase goats/sheep of improved breeds.

3. Bee keeping Scheme: delivery of training to interested parties in bee-keeping, complemented

with the provision of starter kits including queen bees.

4. Pasture Development Scheme to encourages the production of good quality fodder for proper

feeding of livestock.

5. Upgrading of Livestock Farm to assist breeders in upgrading of livestock farms and pig sites.

6. Scheme for Purchase of Equipment, meant to help breeders acquire farm equipment including

agro-processing equipment to modernise their production system.

7. Family Farming Micro-Project Scheme

This scheme was meant to encourage families/households to develop and sustain production of

small farm animals. However, due to administrative issues early during its implementation, the

scheme was abandoned.


8. Pre-Market Test & Certification Scheme

Under this scheme, 100% subsidy is granted to registered agro-processing enterprises for the

conduct of the Pre-Market Test and Certification of their products at the Government Analyst

Division. The aim was to assist agro-processing enterprises in tapping additional and more

profitable market for their products, as well as ensuring the delivery of safe food to customers.

Outcome:

Dairy: an estimated annual milk production of 5.9 Million litres, up from 3.3 M in 2008.

Beef: Production increased from 27 tonnes in 2008 to 180 tonnes in 2012.

Poultry meat increased from 42,000 tonnes in 2008 to 47,500, and exporting.

Goat meat production from 18.7 tonnes to 36 tonnes.

Pork went up from 330 to 652 tonnes in 2012.

Here again, some constraints persisted, namely a decreasing livestock population, limited access to

costly inputs, poor animal husbandry practices; and an ageing and diminishing labour force.

Work-arounds to move forward included:

Developing more effective technologies and farming practices through applied and adaptive

research in nutrition, breeding, reproduction, fodder/pasture and animal waste management to

increase productivity;

Empowering farmers to carry out production, value-addition and marketing of their own

products as a profitable venture; and

Promoting the production of better quality and safer products for consumers.

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2. STRATEGIC PLAN MAIFS FOR 2016 - 2020

2.1 Preamble

This Plan follows earlier planning efforts, and has benefited from the experience gained and lessons

learned from previous Non-Sugar Sector Strategic Plans for 2003-2007 and 2008-2015, the Food

Security Fund Strategic Plans for 2008-2011 and 2013-2015, the Mauritius CAADP Stocktaking

Report (2015) and the Government Programme 2015-2019.

Initially, at the request of the MAIFS, key institutions under its mandate in the non-sugar sector were

invited to prepare strategic plans for their respective sector with the participation of stakeholders.

Meetings were thus held and discussions at this first stage led eventually to the drafting of four

comprehensive documents for the sectors of Crop Production, Livestock Production, Forestry and

Biodiversity.

In a second stage, the available documents were examined to analyse for strengths, weaknesses,

opportunities and threats in these key sectors. Commodities were reviewed with regard to their

current production level as well as their potential to ensure better food security and meet the demand

for safe food. Priorities and key issues were flagged. Gaps in coverage were also identified and

cross-cutting issues singled out for further information and analysis. Cross-cutting issues are indeed

essential to achieve commodity priorities and targets.

As a last step, the Strategic Plan was concluded with the integration of all these elements. This was

followed by setting a general policy orientation for agriculture, and working out the definition of the

mission and vision of the MAIFS, and summarising the key issues to be addressed, and detailing a

number of areas for intervention. These are embedded in strategies highlighted for each sub-sector in

the following chapters.

The Plan is inspired broadly by the Government Programme 2015-2019, and therefore borrows its

general orientations, calling for:

Re-engineering of the agricultural sector into an Agro Industry with a view to (a) increasing the

efficiency and profitability of the sector, (b) rendering it more attractive for young entrepreneurs

(c) increasing its contribution to Economic Growth (d) developing it as an engine for jobs and

wealth creation hence ensuring its sustainability and improving livelihoods;

Developing Eco-tourism as a new economic pillar for job creation and wealth generation;

Promoting the development of sustainable agriculture and organic farming through environment-

friendly production techniques and efficient management of natural resources;

Boosting up food production including via cross-border initiatives to ensure food security and

improve livelihood of farmers;

Establishing an Agricultural Risk Management Framework to increase the resilience of farmers

to address their vulnerability to climate changes;

Encouraging value addition of agricultural products for domestic, regional and international

markets;

Ensuring continuous capacity-building programs across the sector;

Strengthening the position of women, youth and vulnerable groups in the value-chains; and

Integrating nutrition in agricultural investment plans.

The Plan has been formulated to take Mauritius to a higher level of food security whilst respecting

the need for safe food and better nutrition of the population. It takes on board the need for

sustainable agricultural development in a climate-friendly mode as well as safeguarding farmers

livelihoods. However, the various sub-sector strategies proposed will need to be operationalised as

early as possible to enable prompt implementation and to allow ample time for achieving the 2020

targets. The relevant implementing agencies will need to develop a corresponding work plan

covering the duration of the Plan which will be complemented with detailed work programmes on an

annual basis as the Plan unfolds.


In view of the wide range of agricultural commodities covered and their specifics, this Strategic Plan

will present each subsector in detail separately in the following chapters and thereafter cover cross-

cutting issues such as institutional arrangements and reforms, climate change issues, gender and

youth.

2.2 Overall policy

The general policy orientation may be defined as follows:

“Strengthening food security and sustainable agricultural development through

improvements in productivity, provision of safe food, increased contribution of agriculture

in the economy, more awareness and interest for agriculture for business and employment,

and sustainable use of natural and genetic resources.”

2.3 Vision and Mission of MAIFS

The vision of the MAIFS is :

“An integrated development to build vibrant non-sugar agriculture and agri-business

sectors that utilise natural resources sustainably, contribute significantly to national food

security and safety, empower producers to higher productivity, and enhance the welfare of

the farming community”

The mission is:

“to enable and facilitate the advancement of agriculture and the agri-business sector for

improved food security and safety in line with requirements for sustainable development,

with support from national service providers and regional stakeholders”.

2.4 Overall Goal

The overall agricultural development goal is to raise the national food security level by maintaining

self-sufficiency in those agricultural products whenever possible and by generating a significant,

concomitant increase in local production of others. This should be achieved through a shift to

sustainable agricultural practices and eco-friendly methods of production and protection conducive

to safer and better human nutrition.

Besides providing a regulatory framework and creating an enabling policy for the practice of bio-

farming, institutions will need to uplift their methods and tools to support the producers and help

them through this transformation away from high-external-input production systems. This will

require appropriate technologies and sound management practices for both production, processing

and marketing to make them competitive.

Specific objectives shall be :

i. To improve the level of food security in the country

ii. To provide safe and quality food for the local population and for export;

iii. To improve the contribution of agriculture to national economic and social development;

iv. To promote the sustainable management of land, water and other natural resources;

v. To build capacity for enabling farmers to face climate change and move on to ‘climate-smart

agriculture’.

vi. To implement institutional reforms for service delivery and to empower farmers towards

entrepreneurship and professionalism.

These will be adapted and developed further for each sub-sector in coming chapters.

2.5 Expected results to be achieved

The Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security expects to contribute to a number of results

through the implementation of the Strategic Plan, namely:

Reduce the annual deficit in the trade balance between exports and imports of agricultural and

food products;


Increase in the number of legislative provisions related to Good Agricultural Practices, and the

sustainable management of natural resources;

Increase administrative and legislative provisions for application of the Value Chain

Approach; traceability of farm produce; marketing of fresh produce; certification for bio-

farming; at least 3 value chains fully operational.

Ensure at least 50% of farm production proceeds from bio-farming;

A comprehensive GHG Inventory completed in the agricultural sector;

A Climate Change Working Group in place and operational at FAREI;

Climate Change adaptation and mitigation strategies developed;

Number of individual farmers switching to IPM;

Number of area-wide IPM cases implemented;

The socio-economic living conditions of farmers is documented;

A framework for risk management at farmer level is developed;

An increase in food exports volume but without returns due to non-compliance to safety and

quality norms;

An increase in forest area (tree cover) by at least 5%.

2.6 Some principles to guide the plan forward

On the basis of submissions for the different sub-sectors, certain common conditions have emerged

that would be necessary in order to overcome challenges and respond to crises that may arise.

Recognition of the essential responsibilities of the public sector such as for policy and strategy

formulation; the creation of an enabling environment for the farming community (including the

corporate sector) to flourish; ensuring all-stakeholder partnerships (including community

participation); monitoring, evaluation and feedback; preparation of relevant plans for

certification, regulation and the maintenance of standards.

An insistence on sound environmental practices, promotion of bio-diversity and sustainable use

of natural resources to ensure the livelihoods of future generations of farmers; and in particular

to deploy innovative tools such as Geographic Information System (GIS) and Remote Sensing

for effective land use and management.

An enhanced role for entrepreneurs in agri-business via the provision of agricultural inputs,

technical advice, information and marketing services, with public sector responsibility for

oversight, control and regulation.

Recognition of the need for restructuring supporting institutions and their working methods to be

more responsive and farmer-friendly, so that the Ministry achieves its goals.

Recognition that all the key agencies under MAIFS work for a common goal, and hence the need

for enhanced cooperation of all to achieve this goal.

The necessity to develop the capacity of institutions and increase their readiness for partnerships

and collaboration among all relevant stakeholders.

The need to re-consider the approach to knowledge and technology transfer in order to reflect

the specificities of business-oriented agricultural entrepreneurs as opposed to the traditional

producer, and to capitalise on internet and mobile technologies. A value-chain approach with

due facilitation and governance is highly desirable.

Need for better and more timely agricultural statistics not limited to historical data, but providing

current and forecast information for decision-making by both farmers and policy-makers, and

extending beyond into food and nutrition balance sheets. Socio-economic status, poverty and

welfare of farmers are significant information gaps to be filled.


A genuine effort to be made to re-visit farmers organisations and their operation, and re-engineer

them into professionally-run, productive and efficient entities.

Should the necessary effort and commitment be put in by implementing institutions and

stakeholders, there is no doubt that the Plan will deliver to expectations by 2020.


3. NON- SUGAR CROPS

3.1 Introduction

The physical area under food crops is estimated at around 4,300 ha with an overall production

cropped area of 8,200 ha as a result of multiple-cropping. Mauritius has always been a net food

importing country being heavily reliant on imports of staple food – rice, wheat flour, edible oil, milk

and meat, temperate fruits. The total imports of agricultural and food products amounted to MUR

36.4 billion in 2013, up 5.3% as compared to 2012.

Since the 1990’s considerable effort has been made to produce selected food crops to meet our

requirements and ensure some measure of self-sufficiency using an import-substitution strategy. The

main crops cultivated are potato, tomato, onion, chilli, crucifers, cucurbits, green vegetables, fruits

such as litchi, banana and pineapple averaging 112,800 tonnes of fresh vegetables and fruits

annually. Close to 100% self-sufficiency in fresh vegetables and tropical fruits has thus been

achieved. Nonetheless, seasonal imports of some vegetables including potato and onion are required

to meet local consumption during the off-season and following calamities. Thus, self-sufficiency in

potato is around 76%, onion is 40% and Garlic at 18%. Along with 100% imports for staples, these

add to our food insecurity. With climate change scenarios envisaged in coming decades, adverse

climatic events are more likely and will eventually pose additional risks for local production.

In Mauritius, the food crop sector has been meeting the food consumption requirements of the

population with an overall self-sufficiency of 23%. The small-holder food crops sector involves

around 8,000 growers holding plots of 0.2-1 ha, while the corporate sector operates larger areas of

20-25 ha. There are in addition some 375 hydroponic farmers with a production area of 27.3 ha.

Fruit production consists mainly of pineapple, banana, papaya, passion fruit and seasonal fruits such

as litchi and mangoes. There is potential for production of pineapple, litchi and passion-fruit for the

local market as well as for export and processing for value addition. Imports are nonetheless high for

fresh fruits of temperate origin to meet consumer preferences.

Flowers and ornamentals production meets local requirements. Anthurium blooms and orchids also

contributed to export of about 12.58 M blooms annually. Diversification towards cut/stem rose,

gerbera, chrysanthemum and gladiolus for the local market is growing. The annual value of

ornamental production is estimated at MUR 231 M.

3.2 A SWOT of the Non-Sugar crops sub-sector

This sub-sector provides opportunities for income generation, job creation, economic development,

household food security and poverty alleviation. However, its sustainable expansion and

intensification has met with a growing number of challenges. This calls for a comprehensive

approach to address technological, environmental, input supply and natural resource challenges. The

bio-farming approach to production, consumption, processing, storage, recycling and use of

biological resources holds good potential.

The present analysis provides an insight in terms of its strength, weaknesses, opportunities and likely

threats.

Strengths

1. Government initiatives to enable development through agri-business promotion and SME

development; setting up of a national wholesale market; and a wide array of supporting

institutions.

2. A high level of self-sufficiency in fresh vegetable production based an experienced farming

community and interest of the private sector; and

3. An island-wide coverage for research and extension, manned by qualified professionals as well as

an operational Agricultural Production and Market Information System (APMIS).


Weaknesses

1. Limited land availability; small size of land holdings debars from economies of scale for

mechanisation; and the absence of Specialised Agricultural Production Areas dedicated to organic

or agro-processing;

2. Relatively low farm productivity associated with limited uptake of modern management

techniques; an over-reliance on manual methods and agro-chemicals; low level of investment, and

unwillingness to take risks; farmers’ resistance to cluster to gain on economies of scale and

productivity; no entrepreneurial aptitudes for vertical integration up the value chain;

3. High cost of labour and agricultural inputs; weak supply chains in terms of lack of planting

material, storage infrastructure and agri-service support; shortage of skilled and unskilled labour;

4. Unprepared to face Climate Change;

5. Unstructured marketing; absence of norms and standards, and enforcement thereof;

6. Weak co-ordination and linkage between institutions, farmers and other stakeholders;

7. Inadequate investment in research, intensive technologies and capacity development;

8. Unattractive to youth, and an ageing farming community.

Opportunities

1. Useful option for diversification on abandoned sugarcane lands;

2. Emergence of investors in the agro-industrial sector; and agri-business opportunities developing

out of economic integration and free trade areas in the region e.g. SADC, IOC, AU and

COMESA;

3. Growing awareness for eco-friendly agriculture, Green Agriculture and Natural/ Bio-Farming;

possibilities under fair-trade label and other niche markets;

4. Growing demand for variety in diets, nutritious food out of health concerns; innovative and

convenience products to match modern lifestyle of the population; and a growing tourism

industry;

5. Potential for clustering to benefit from economies of scale.

Threats

1. Ageing farming community and the new generation unwilling to embark in agriculture;

2. Inheritance issues and ever-decreasing size of land holdings; and conversion for urban

development;

3. Dominance of market intermediaries;

4. Competition from cheaper imports from large-scale producing countries;

5. Adverse agro-climatic conditions, climate change risks and natural disasters; increasing threats

from introduction of new pests and diseases; and lack of insurance;

6. Competition for resources (human, land and water) from other economic sectors.

3.3 Key strategic orientations

Based on the analysis above, some key orientations emerge for the food crop sector as follows:

1. A shift towards bio-farming for safe and quality food, with standards and norms; preferably in

Clusters /Special Agricultural Production Areas;

2. Provision of incentives for the adoption of sustainable production practices; clustering;

exploitation of abandoned land; agri-business ventures in processing food for local and export

market; cross-border investment;

3. R&D in new technologies to increase land productivity and sustainable production and ensure

food and nutrition security; biotechnology and biological inputs in production systems; tools to


address labour shortage, improve post-harvest life and minimise food wastage; addressing climate

change mitigation and adaptation;

4. Technology exchange, capacity building and effective information and communication

management; support to agro-entrepreneurs through training to identify potential agri-business

and its feasibility; educating farmers about climate change and coping strategies;

5. Strengthening of marketing and market information services to the farming community;

6. Promotion of value chain approach, with participation of private sector and governance by public

body;

7. Need to build capacity for adaptation to Climate Change.

3.4 Strategies and Intervention Areas

The objective is to provide a strategic direction to stakeholders, taking into account the demand for

quality and safe food, implications of climate change, depleting resources and the need for

sustainability among others. These warrant a fresh and innovative approach towards growth in

agricultural production and food security so that this sub-sector continues to contribute to the

economy, the economic empowerment of the farming community and poverty reduction. Thus the

specific objective of this plan is to enhance the role of Agriculture by:

Improving standards of living of the population and meeting the increasing demand for better

quality and safer food products and bio-food;

Enhancing the level of self-sufficiency in a number of selected agricultural products;

Developing a modern agricultural sector with a radical change towards a bio-economy with the

emphasis towards promoting green growth;

Empowering the agricultural community economically and technically especially the younger,

skilled generation by providing opportunities and appropriate support to enable them to emerge

as agricultural entrepreneurs;

Building capacity for adaptation to Climate Change;

Sharpening our export potential with quality and diversified products taking into account the

trade liberalisation, globalisation and cross-border initiatives;

Seizing opportunities in the region to develop Mauritius into an agro-business hub;

Promoting intensive agricultural production within a sustainable framework;

Providing technical, market information and advisory services;

Promoting value addition of primary farm produce; and

Promoting commodity value chain and agribusiness development.

Opportunities have therefore to be created for farmers, entrepreneurs and rural families to generate

revenue in new ways while providing safe and nutritious food and conserving the natural

biodiversity. The strategic plan addresses priority food crops, vegetables, and fruits along their value

chain and aligns institutions and stakeholders with the government policies in the following areas:

Development of sustainable production systems;

Professional development of producers and the youth;

Improvement in efficient use of resources;

Development of service providers for the farming community;

Value chain and agri-business development; and

Institutional strengthening/re-organization/networking.

Institutions building capacity to promote bio-farming and relevant certification.

Based on the above, the following strategic interventions have been retained in priority:


Intervention 1: Enhancing food and nutrition security

The recent food crisis highlighted the country’s vulnerability and the need for a renewed impetus to

meet the challenges of food and nutrition security. The main actions identified to realise this

intervention are:

i. Institutional strengthening for R&D;

ii. Enhancing self-sufficiency in selected agricultural products;

iii. Optimal land resource allocation; and

iv. Diversification away from sugarcane .

Intervention 2: Improving competitiveness

To realise food security objectives, productivity will have to be improved. Actions proposed are:

i. Introduction and transfer of innovative and relevant technologies;

ii. Promoting agri-business for service provision to the farming community;

iii. Capacity building of farmers towards a knowledge-based agriculture;

iv. Exploiting novel Information Communication Technology (ICT) to enhance agricultural

extension outreach/training/information; and

v. Modernisation of the sector (including farm mechanization).

Intervention 3: Promoting food safety and efficient and sustainable production practices/

system

To meet the Government’s vision of a green economy and ensuring safe food within a sustainable

context, the following actions are proposed:

i. Motivating farmers to shift towards sustainable production systems;

ii. R&D in biotechnology and renewable biological alternatives to agro chemicals;

iii. Improving efficiency in natural resource use;

iv. Creating specific Special Agricultural Production Areas (zoning) for bio-farming;

v. Implementing certification scheme for Green Agriculture/ Bio-Farming; and

vi. Implementing a Food Safety Framework with appropriate regulatory system and enforcement.

In that context, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) are being promoted. Meeting the GLOBALGAP

criteria can be a daunting task for local producers. Thus, MauriGAP has been introduced with its

Level 1 (Basic) and Level 2 (Advanced) to serve as steps towards Level 3 which corresponds to

GLOBALGAP certification.

The Mauritius Standard Bureau has published in October 2015 a Mauritian Standard on

‘Specification for Good Agricultural Practices for Crop Production – MauriGAP – Part 1 – Basic

requirements’. It establishes basic requirements for sustainable crop production, focusing on Good

Agricultural Practices for food safety, environmental stewardship and farmer / worker welfare. It

applies to open and protected field cultivation as well as to hydroponics. It will be used for

inspection and certification purposes of the crop production process.

Research is under way in collaboration with CIRAD and international research organisations. A

sensitisation campaign has already been initiated. Further work is needed to develop the legal

framework and a certification scheme. Technical assistance is being sought from FAO.

Intervention 4: Promoting strong value chains

A Value Chain Analysis (VCA) gives an indication of proposals for intervention along the crop

filière. For example, strategic interventions may be required for seed production, mechanization to

reduce cost of production and labour shortages; minimise loss and food wastage; pre- and post-

harvest practices to improve quality, marketing and value addition. Thus, local seed production

under the Quality Declared Seed scheme will be encouraged to meet the demand for vegetable seeds


and reduce our dependence on imports. Similarly, VCA’s for pineapple, litchi and ornamentals are

potential applications. Strong value chains can enhance the collaboration of the producers, private

sector and service-providers. Their smooth functioning needs initially to be facilitated, with

provision of governance of the value chain assured by public bodies.

Actions proposed are:

i. Promoting value chain approach;

ii. Adding value to primary produce;

iii. Creating dedicated agro processing parks;

iv. Minimising wastage along the value chain;

v. Promoting emergence of agri-business networks / clusters;

vi. Setting up of a regulatory framework e.g. for seeds; and

vii. Strengthening of the Agricultural Production and Market Information Service.

Intervention 5: Developing resilience to Climate Change

As a SIDS, the country’s agricultural sector is particularly vulnerable to climate change (CC),

variability and its impacts. Small farmers who are already resource-poor are especially vulnerable.

There is a need to strengthen resilience, enhance adaptation capacity and provide coping strategies.

Actions proposed are:

i. Institutional adaptation in terms of the setting up of a focal point for climate change and

sustainable agricultural research and development at FAREI;

ii. Implementing the national climate change adaptation policy;

iii. Development of practices aimed at increasing the resilience of agricultural systems to climate

change;

iv. Data and information collection, early warning and dissemination; and

v. Evaluating alternative land use options harnessing biomass / solar energy.

Intervention 6: Exploiting agri-business potentials of international, regional markets and free

trade areas

With the country’s limited land area, small population and market, the growth of the agricultural

sector will depend on its capacity to harness agri-business potential abroad. This will imply:

i. Sharpening our competitive edge on the export front with quality and diversified products;

ii. Developing/promoting initiatives for export of agricultural produce; and

iii. Providing an enabling environment for quality production.

Intervention 7: Promoting the emergence of agro-entrepreneurs

The Government Program 2015-2019 lays emphasis on structuring innovation and growth of the

economy through Small and Medium Enterprise (SMEs) and in its Budget 2015-2016, Government

set its goal to make the SME sector the backbone of our economy. In line with this goal, the

following actions are envisaged:

i. Supporting agro-entrepreneurship, in particular among the youth and women;

ii. Providing start-up incentives to youth embarking in agri-business;

iii. Providing training, incubation facilities and mentoring support for start-ups; and

iv. Raising the status of agricultural jobs and activities through formal award courses.

Intervention 8: Creating an enabling environment and options for risk management

Agricultural activity is subject to a wide range of risks among which market price volatility, vagaries

of weather, and theft. The realisation of these risks leads to reduced farm incomes, constrains future

investment and growth of existing farm businesses, and can deter newcomers in the sector. To


achieve the objectives and targets set under the Plan, it is important to establish an enabling

environment that is conducive to farmers’ engagement.

To that effect, the following actions are proposed:

i. Enhancing farmers’ quality of life through better welfare programmes: pension, crop insurance

scheme, health insurance;

ii. Providing a full-fledged plan to support existing farmers and attract new entrants/workers and

investors in the sector through financial incentives (part funding schemes), fiscal measures

like tax holiday, discounted rates for land preparation at the SPMPC, enlarging the product

base for VAT refund, access to leasing facilities to acquire equipment;

iii. Promoting overseas exchange programs between farmers to accelerate adoption of new

techniques and technologies; and

iv. Working out a strategy to reduce theft in farmers’ fields.

Intervention 9: Facilitating the emergence of Agri-Business Clusters

This new idea involves facilitating the setting-up and operation of Agri-Business Clusters to group

farmers, traders, processors, import dealers and business development service providers. Training

and mentoring services. It implies agribusiness support (business plan, feasibility, marketing), value

addition; market links; and contracting services. The support package will comprise of:

i. Motivation and canvassing potential candidates;

ii. Defining codes of practice for the cluster;

iii. Facilitating the linkages between actors within the cluster;

iv. Ensuring good governance in its operation.

Such approach will also enable access to fair-trade initiatives which can provide additional revenue

and new market opportunities to small producers. It also helps to professionalise the small producers

through enhanced capacity development programmes. The above approach fits major commodities

identified for our agri-food sector. This will lead farming towards agri-business attitudes and

encourage them to invest in production, post-harvest, storage, processing and marketing.

Intervention 10: Research and Development

Research and Development is the driving force for innovation and for addressing new challenges to

meet the current demands of farmers and consumers. It aims at improving sustainable food crop

production through the development of cost effective production and protection methods. New

technologies and capacity building are essential for sustaining production in a fast-changing

environment, but must now fulfil conditions for compatibility with health, safety and environment

norms. Besides, research needs to coordinate with extensionists and farmers so as to optimise on

resources, avoid duplication and receive feedback on farmers’ response to proposed technologies.

The R&D programme will focus on the following:

i. Introduction / evaluation of new germplasm (for increased yield and quality, better

adaptability, extension of season, resistance to pests and diseases);

ii. Development of better performing novel varieties;

iii. Productivity and quality improvement (through hydroponics, sheltered farming,

novel technologies, mechanisation);

iv. Pre- and post-harvest management and agro-processing;

v. Minimisation of food waste along the chain.

vi. Optimal resources use (land, water, seeds);

vii. Sustainable agriculture and bio-farming;

viii. Sustainable pest and disease management;

ix. Climate change resilience; and


x. Agricultural biotechnology.

3.5 Commodities

The situation is described in detail below for main food crop commodities, rice and tea, fruit crops

and ornamentals with respect to their potential to maintain and where possible to improve our food

self-sufficiency. The basis idea is to consolidate production for those crops where we are already

self-sufficient, and extend their production to meet the increasing demand if resources allow. Where

imports are significant, effort will be made to increase production as long as local producers are

competitive. There will be some crops, however, where we do not have comparative advantage for

technical and/or cost reasons such as our staples and pulses.

Several speciality crops raised under hydroponics or protected cultivation such as Salad Tomato,

English Cucumber, Sweet Pepper, Melon and salad crops also offer room for growth.

Table 1 summarises some realistic but nonetheless challenging targets for 2020.

Table 1: 2020 targets for selected crops with potential for increased production

Crop unit from to %

increase % increased

self-sufficiency

Crucifers tonnes 6,625 8,645 30.5%

Carrot tonnes 4,952 6,500 31.3%

Chillies tonnes 1,488 1,900 27.7%

Cucurbits tonnes 28,263 31,734 12.3%

Garlic tonnes 62 300 383.9% from 9 to 15%

Mushroom tonnes 22 60 172.7%

Onion tonnes 7,000 8,500 21.4% from 38 to 50%**

Potato tonnes 19,000 21,600 13.7% from 76 to 80%**

Tomato tonnes 11,200 15,000 33.9%

Crops under Hydroponics

Salad Tomato tonnes 3,750 4,267 13.8% Sweet Pepper tonnes 580 658 13.4% Melon tonnes 102 116 13.7% English Cucumber M units 2.6 3 15.4% Lettuce M heads 0.9 1 11.1%

** These targets are realistic in view of seasonality and limits on storage life of these perishable products.

Higher targets are realisable only if opportunities open up for export or processing.

3.5.1 Potato

Potato is a seasonal crop with 2 season plantations during a year. During 2010-2014, production

averaged to 19,000 tonnes representing a self-sufficiency of 76% and the demand for ware potato

averaged to 25,000 tonnes and is expected to reach 27,000 tonnes by 2020. From 2009 to 2014,

imports of processed potato have increased by 77% indicating a shift in consumption pattern towards

value-added products mainly in the form of frozen French fries and potato chips. This is expected to

increase with the development of the fast food and tourism industry. However, the current demand of

seed potato for the local seed industry is only 2,500 tonnes, and the rest (75%) is imported for MUR

60 million.

To attain a self-sufficiency ratio of 80% representing around 21,600 tonnes by year 2020, the

following accompanying measures are proposed:

i. Maintain the Potato Boost up Scheme to assist planters in purchasing seed potatoes;

ii. Provide financial incentives for the purchase of machinery to mechanise field operations at

planting, ridging and harvesting to reduce cost of production;


iii. Maintain seed quality testing until its replacement by a certification scheme under the Seed

Act;

iv. Train entrepreneurs in agro-processing;

v. Provide additional storage facility at AMB;

vi. Encourage and improve seed and ware potato production efficiency;

vii. Introduce and promote varieties with better yields due to increasing cost of production and

varieties suitable for new markets such as chips and baby potato;

viii. Make use of abandoned sugar cane lands for potato cultivation;

ix. Additional 200 ha of land to be made available during the 2nd season plantation; and

x. Develop new varieties which can be cultivated late in the 2nd season for extended production.

3.5.2 Garlic

Garlic is widely used in the local cuisine but is also valued for its anti-cholesterol effect and is used

in traditional medicine. Over the last three decades, the average annual production has decreased

from around 200 tonnes during the 1980s’ to only 24 tonnes in 2010.

With the decision to revamp the sector, a Garlic Seed Purchase Scheme was introduced in 2011. The

area under garlic rose to 27 ha in 2014 with a production of 162 tonnes representing a self-

sufficiency of around 9%. Around 1,683 tonnes of garlic for a value of about MUR 75 M was

imported mainly from China in 2014. Garlic has thus a good potential for import substitution.

To achieve a production of 300 tonnes (representing around 15% self-sufficiency) by 2020, the

following support measures are proposed:

i. Improve support measures via the Garlic Seed Purchase Scheme, Garlic Seed Scheme and the

guaranteed price of table garlic;

ii. Provide financial facilities for the purchase of machinery for land preparation, planting;

iii. Train entrepreneurs in agro-processing;

iv. Develop market for value-added products such as garlic pickles, flakes, paste and powder;

v. Provide additional and better adapted storage facilities;

vi. Improve extension support from plantation to storage through information and regular pest

control;

vii. Develop a protocol for the plantation of different varieties of garlic adapted to various regions;

viii. Construct better stores for garlic seeds;

ix. Provide incentives to specialised growers for larger production scale and efficiency; and

x. Increase land under garlic so as to attain the targeted 15% self-sufficiency in year 2020.

3.5.3 Onion

Over the last five years, the annual production of onion ranged from 5,200 to 7,700 tonnes on 230 –

350 ha of land. Such a production represents a self-sufficiency of around 38%. The area under onion

production is at present around 282 ha. The annual consumption turns around 17,000 tonnes with a

per capita consumption of around 13 kg while the import bill amounted to MUR 201 M in 2014.

To achieve a production of 8,500 tonnes representing around 50% self-sufficiency by 2020, the

following support measures are proposed:

i. Provision of financial incentives to planters for the purchase of machinery for land

preparation, sowing, harvesting and irrigation;

ii. Maintain support measures in terms of the Onion Booster Scheme to encourage production;


iii. Develop market opportunities for high value-added products such as onion pickles, flakes, and

powder;

iv. Provide additional storage facilities at AMB based on targeted production;

v. Additional 125 ha of land to be released so as to attain 50% self-sufficiency in year 2020; and

vi. Encourage seed production locally, and improve production efficiency on a larger scale

through a specialised entity or dedicated entrepreneurs.

3.5.4 Legumes and pulses

During 2010-2014, the average annual production of snap beans and cowpeas (fresh) was 1,500

tonnes and 1,400 tonnes respectively. Pea production has significantly declined from 20 tonnes in

2007 to only 2 in 2013 due to its being highly labour-intensive.

Around 14,000 tonnes of pulses for a value of MUR 412 M was imported in 2014 and which

consisted of lentils (3,500 tonnes), split peas (3,400 tonnes) and lima beans (3,000 tonnes).

Production of fresh mature/ripe pods has better prospects than pulses as it fetches better market

price, consumer preference and acceptability. Pulse production is also not competitive given low

price of imported pulse. Four bush lima bean varieties were released in 2013 and 4 pole lima bean

varieties in 2015. The area under lima bean production was expected to reach 1.5 ha in 2015 with an

estimated yield of 15 tonnes. Two promising bean varieties namely Rosa and Red Pearl were

released in 2013 and a production of 8-10 tonnes over an area of one ha was expected in 2015. The

promotion of leguminous crops (high in protein) is desirable in the context of nutrition security.

To maintain and increase legume/pulse production, the following support measures are proposed:

i. Promote large scale production of newly-released pulse varieties;

ii. Develop market and agro-processing opportunities; and

iii. Provide support schemes for seed purchase and seed storage.

3.5.5 Tomato

During 2010-2014, the annual production of tomato varied from 11,000-12,000 tonnes. For same

period, the importation of processed tomato (mainly for ketchup/purée) increased from 4,422 to

8,320 tonnes for a CIF value of MUR 278 M in 2014. Local tomato production for the agro-

processing industry has so far been found not to be competitive due to an unstable supply to the

markets.

In 2013, around 11,200 tonnes of tomato was produced over an area of 816 ha. To cater for fresh

market and raw material for processing at cottage level, a production target of 15,000 tonnes is set by

2020.

The following measures are proposed:

i. Train small entrepreneurs in agro-processing;

ii. Provide support measures to household to set up small scale agro-processing unit to reduce

losses, ensure price stabilisation and cater for shortages due to adverse climatic conditions;

iii. Financial incentives for the purchase of plastic crates;

iv. Training in pre and post-harvest practices to minimise post-harvest losses; and

v. Training and campaign on the use of lures/ traps against pests.

3.5.6 Chillies

Over the last 5 years, the average production of chillies was 1,378 tonnes. An additional 495 tonnes

was imported in the form of dried, powdered and processed chilli sauce. On the other hand, locally

processed chilli in the form of pickles, sauce and preserved in brine is currently exported to niche

market. This points to the potential for transformation and value addition of chilli both for the local

and export market.


In 2013, about 1,488 tonnes of chilli was produced over an area of 275 ha. A production target up to

1,900 tonnes is set by 2020 and the following measures are proposed:

i. Train local entrepreneurs in agro processing; and

ii. Provide support measures in terms of schemes for entrepreneurs to set up small scale agro-

processing units.

3.5.7 Carrot

About 4,952 tonnes of carrot were produced in 2013. It is consumed fresh or in semi processed form,

which is imported frozen. The area under carrot cultivation over the years has more or less stagnated.

Fresh carrot is imported during drought, cyclone or flooding when production is affected and supply

to the market is low. In 2014, 74 tonnes of fresh or chilled carrots was imported for a CIF value of

MUR 2.7 M.

A target production of 6,500 tonnes is set for 2020 and the following measures are proposed:

i. Mechanisation of bed formation and sowing activities;

ii. Improvement of pre- and post-harvest practices to extend shelf life; and

iii. Financial incentives for the purchase of bed-formers and sowing machines.

3.5.8 Crucifers

The main crucifers comprises of cauliflower, cabbage and broccoli with average annual production

of 4,700 tonnes of cabbage, 1,700 tonnes of cauliflower and 225 tonnes of broccoli over the last 5

years. The country is self-sufficient in cruciferous crops, except during periods of cyclones when

importation is required to cater for the demand. In 2014, the total importation of crucifers was 68

tonnes.

Over the last 5 years, the area under cabbage has been stable while for broccoli there is an increase

of 14 ha and 55 ha for cauliflower. The production of all these crucifers is expected to rise by 2020

to 5,770 tonnes for cabbage, 2,580 tonnes for cauliflower and 365 tonnes for broccoli. To achieve

these targets, the following measures are proposed:

i. Promoting cultivation of cauliflower and broccoli for off-season production; and

ii. Introduction of pre- and post-harvest practices to increase the shelf life.

3.5.9 Cucurbits

Cucurbits constitute of the following cultivated species such as pumpkin, cucumber, squash, chayote

(chouchou), calabash, zucchini, ridge gourd, bitter gourd and snake gourd. Production of these

cucurbits for 2014 amounted to 28,263 tonnes from an area of 2,294 ha.

Being self-sufficient in most of the species, only a small volume of squash, cucumber and zucchini is

imported to cater primarily for the hotel industry.

The production of these cucurbits is estimated to reach 31,734 tonnes by 2020. To that effect, the

following measures are proposed:

i. Improving cultural practices (trellising);

ii. Promoting of pre and post-harvest practices to increase the shelf life; and

iii. Promoting protected cultivation.

3.5.10 Mushroom

There is an increasing demand for fresh mushroom and processed products such as mushroom

pickles, spreads, ketch-up and pre-cooked products such as mushroom burgers and meat balls. About

1,446 tonnes of mushrooms (fresh/chilled or processed) were imported in 2013.

Mushroom production (Pleurotus) is estimated to be around 22 tonnes in 2013. A production target

of 60 tonnes is set for 2020, and the following measures proposed:

i. Provision of incentives to growers for the purchase of equipment for mushroom production;


ii. Promotion of alternative substrates to bagasse for mushroom production; and

iii. Diversification of mushroom production by promoting shitake.

3.5.11 Crops under Hydroponics

Following the introduction of the Biotechnology Loan Scheme in 1999, the number of promoters has

increased from 6 exploiting 25 hydroponics units to around 365 now operating 615 units over an

area of 26.7 ha in 2014 for the production of vegetables and ornamentals. The estimated production

is 3,750 tonnes of salad tomato, 580 tonnes of sweet pepper, 2.6 M units of green cucumber, 102

tonnes of melon and 0.9 M units of lettuce heads.

This production technique has enabled the supply of quality products and a decrease in their

importation. It also demonstrates the high rate of return when investing in this technology. The area

under hydroponic cultivation is expected to increase by 0.5 ha each year. The annual projected

production will reach around 4,267 tonnes of salad tomato, 658 tonnes of sweet pepper, 116 tonnes

of melon, 3 M units of English cucumber, and 1 M heads of lettuce by 2020.


i. Maintaining financial incentives to growers for setting up hydroponic units;

ii. Clustering of producers for improved marketing;

iii. Training of skilled workers for this sector; and

iv. Development of low-cost structures using bamboo.

3.5.12 Tea

The tea sector in 2013 consisted of a total of 672 ha under cultivation, compared to 713 ha in 2009.

Some 442 ha are cultivated by small-holders (with less than 1 ha) whilst three estates (Bois Chéri,

Corson and Chartreuse) occupy a total area of 180 ha. The small-holders comprised of some 1,340

planters (450 metayers, 6 co-operative societies under one federation, and 600 individual planters).

Though there is a decrease of 5.7% in the area over last four years, an increase of 4% is noted in the

production of green leaves (7,663 tonnes in 2009 compared to 7,981 tonnes in 2013).

The following measures are proposed to support the traditional tea sector:

i. Training of planters for the setting up of nurseries to raise plantlets for in-filling of fields;

ii. Support to re-habilitate abandoned tea plantations (drainage system, pruning, termite control);

and

iii. Provision of advisory services for the tea sector (following the closure of the Tea Board).

It must be noted here that tea is currently subject of renewed interest by foreign investors. This

presents opportunities to bring back into operation those same tea factories that were closed down in

the 90’s, thereby generating employment for out-growers and factory operators alike.

However, several strategic issues need to be addressed and steps taken to assist this re-vitalisation of

the tea industry and its long term sustainability, as follows:

i. Increasing production of green tea leaf, notably by enabling new tea producers to operate and

trade on the local market, and provision of an estimated 125 hectares of State Lands to

establish fresh plantations.

ii. Establishment of a nursery to produce tea plantlets for in-filling, replacement of old

plantations and starting fresh ones.

iii. Current tea manufacturing technologies must be reviewed, and new technologies developed to

improve quality of made tea. Technical expertise will need to be out-sourced or solicited from

development partners or through bi-lateral cooperation.

iv. Extension support to leaf producers for the adoption of sound husbandry practices so they can

achieve higher yields and better leaf quality.


v. A joint venture should be considered with the MAIFS, local tea producers and manufacturers

as parties. This is essential on account of the high investment involved in establishing new

plantations and nurturing them to profitable production stage. Alternatively, a contract-

growing scheme could be put in place linking local tea producers and manufacturers, and

overseen by MAIFS to ensure compliance with agreed arrangements and fair terms of trade for

all parties.

vi. By way of encouragement, a special financial support scheme for new tea growers, to assist

them with land preparation; procurement of inputs; and subsistence during the early years

before their plantation reaches maturity.

3.5.13 Rice

The country has recently started production of rice and rice seeds for commercial purposes. This

project initiated by a private promoter concerns the cultivation of hybrid rice varieties. These

varieties are high-yielding and high ratooning ability. They carry beneficial traits such as low

glycemic index (GI) and have found a niche as health food on the US market. The company aims at

scaling up production, but will keep developing rice seeds of high nutritional values meant both for

the local and the export markets.

3.5.14 Ornamental sector

Ornamentals grown are anthurium, rose, gerbera, chrysanthemum, orchids, foliage, tropical exotics,

gladiolus and lilium. Total acreage cultivated is around 67 ha with anthurium, rose and gerbera being

the main crops. Some 10 nurseries are in operation. The anthurium production is geared mainly

towards export although there is export potential for foliage and tropical exotics like hanging lobster,

strelitzia, ginger torch and alpinia. Flower production can further be expanded with the development

of the tourism industry and changes in lifestyle of locals.

To maintain/increase flower production, the following measures are proposed:

i. Encouraging potential agro-entrepreneurs moving out of sugarcane to embark in commercial

flower production;

ii. Introduction and evaluation of new varieties from certified sources;

iii. Provision of financial facilities to set up nurseries, greenhouse, shade-house and purchase of

planting materials including tissue cultured plantlets;

iv. Revival of the production of anthurium;

v. Promotion and training of growers in orchid culture; and

vi. Facilitating the application for import/export permits (on-line).

3.5.15 Fruits

Lands formerly under sugarcane but now abandoned represents a unique opportunity for the fruit

sector to become a new focus for agricultural development, targeting the local and export markets. It

represents a diversification opportunity for the sugarcane planters, and can contribute towards the

country’s food and nutrition security. Fruit production on abandoned sugarcane land will also

address environmental issues and assist with soil carbon sequestration.

Fruit production has the potential to be commercially viable without recourse to chemicals and

therefore bio-production should be a reasonable aim. Such a development should be encouraged by:

i. Incentive schemes for new start-ups;

ii. Allocation of resources for the establishment and management of orchards;

iii. Stepping up the production of planting materials

iv. Fine-tuning pre- / post-harvest and agro-processing technologies;

v. Enhancement of export services (market information, certification, freight facility); and

vi. Sensitisation of consumers of the value of locally-produced fruits.


3.5.15.1 Pineapple

The area under pineapple cultivation has doubled during the last five years reaching 600 ha in 2013

with a production of 16,000 tonnes. Export peaked to 1,800 tonnes in 2014 for a FOB value of MUR

122.7 M. Abandoned land under sugarcane in Flacq and Pamplemousses districts are increasingly

being brought under pineapple cultivation. New markets are emerging in Dubai, East Europe and

China to complement the traditional European market. Some farmers and exporters have

significantly improved their production and post-harvest practices and are now Global GAP

certified. However, cases have been reported of residue levels above MRL for ethephon used for de-

greening fruits exported to EU.

The low productivity per unit area (27 tonnes/ha), and an increase to 50 tonnes/ha is realisable

through systematic land rotation and the adoption of sustainable practices. To increase production

and exports eventually, the following measures are proposed:

i. Supporting planters adopting self-assessment guides to upgrade their production system for

Global GAP certification;

ii. Discourage de-greening of pine apple in the field so as to maintain the premium nature of

locally produced variety, Victoria;

iii. Creation of pineapple villages in Camp de Masque and Les Mariannes among others, to

promote agro-tourism;

iv. Promotion of green businesses (agro-processing, handicrafts, ‘colis cadeau’) to create

employment for women and youth;

v. Support measures to farmers moving into organic production in Specialised Zones; and

vi. Training on flower induction and sensitisation of growers and associated workers on dangers

associated with indiscriminate use of ethephon.

3.5.15.2 Litchi

For more than 25 years, Mauritian litchi has been a reference on the European market. Export has for

several years been dependent on sulphured litchi from backyard production to target the early season

(November) when the price is significantly more remunerative.

During the last ten years, the number of backyard trees has decreased by nearly 50% (40,000 down

to 24,000 trees). In contrast, litchi orchards have been established throughout the island. Some 346

planters are now growing litchi trees commercially over an area of 423 ha.

To compete with countries like Madagascar which have economies of scale and low cost of

production, Mauritius has diversified from export of sulphured litchi to fresh branched litchi. This

has enabled Mauritian litchi to remain competitive until end-December. The export market fluctuates

between 250 tonnes and 300 tonnes annually.

For the development of the sector, the following measures are proposed:

i. Production of planting materials to meet the demand for orchard development initiatives (e.g.

new promising variety Yook Ho Pow);

ii. Maintaining schemes for the purchase of equipment to encourage recycling/composting leaves

in commercial orchards;

iii. Review and maintain the anti-bird net scheme to encourage use of nets to prevent fruit damage

by bats and birds;

iv. Strengthening of Post-Harvest facilities;

v. Support to planters in adopting self-assessment guides to upgrade their production system for

Global GAP certification;

vi. Fiscal incentives to promote export of fresh litchi to non-traditional and emerging markets

(Dubai, East Europe, Russia, China, India); and

vii. Promoting bio-farming in litchi production.


3.5.15.3 Banana

The area under banana (500 ha) and annual production (10,000 tonnes) has been stable during the

last five years. The main challenges are to increase the area under production and productivity to

meet increased demand (fresh and processed product for domestic and tourist markets). Furthermore,

the issue of fruit quality and safety needs to be addressed urgently, particularly the indiscriminate

application of ethephon for ripening of banana.


i. Increasing propagation of clean banana planting materials through tissue culture;

ii. Integration of banana cultivation to fruit orchards to reduce mono crop plantation on marginal

lands as a strategy to minimise spread of diseases;

iii. Provision of schemes to promote the export of Gingely and Mammoul banana to niche

markets (fair trade, organic);

iv. Provision of fiscal incentives for ripening of banana under controlled temperature using

ethylene gas to gradually replace ripening using ethephon;

v. Encouraging entrepreneurs in supply of quality ripened banana as an agri-business; and

vi. Investigating into banana fibre production for added value.

3.5.15.4 Passion fruit

The cultivation of passion fruit, mainly the purple variety, has increased significantly during the past

years to reach 8.36 ha. The crop is well adapted to all agro-climatic zones, and provides an early

return on investment. There is a potential for significantly increasing the acreage for the export

market in particular.


i. Propagation of planting materials for distribution to planters;

ii. Setting up of scheme for the establishment of plots to offset the costly trellising system;

iii. Promotion of production clusters to increase export of quality fruits; and

iv. Integration of passion fruit cultivation in fruit tree orchards to minimise cyclone damage.

3.5.15.5 Papaya

Papaya is a fruit species grown on around 19 ha. It is adapted to local conditions, requires low

investment and provides a relatively short payback period. It is proposed that papaya cultivation be

integrated in interlines of orchards established in the low-lands.

The following measures are proposed to boost production:

i. Developing pre- and post-harvest management practices for improved marketability;

ii. Encourage value addition through processing (small scale enterprises); and

iii. Step up the rearing of parasitoids and promotion of bio-control for papaya mealy bugs in

orchards.

3.5.15.6 Pitaya

Pitaya is a new fruit species recently introduced and its production area is estimated to be 2.73 ha. It

adapts well on marginal land, requires low input and has a relatively short pay-back period compared

to the majority of perennial fruit species. Its fruit fetches a high price on the local market and there is

potential for its export due to its good post-harvest handling characteristics. In support, the following

measures are proposed:

i. Promotion of organic production of pitaya as it can be successfully grown without agro-

chemicals;

ii. Production of pitaya on marginal lands unsuitable for other crops; and


iii. Release of self-pollinated pitaya to encourage and facilitate its production.

3.5.15.7 Breadfruit

Breadfruit for export has slowly but consistently increased during the last five years to reach 4.67 ha

in 2014. A niche market in UK is gradually developing and has the potential to increase further.

Actually, breadfruit can be grown with minimum inputs, and production starts as from the third year

after planting. Unavailability of planting materials is no more a limiting factor. Breadfruit has the

further advantage that it can be grown in an agro-forestry system. Moreover, its high perishability

and its seasonality can be addressed through agro processing.


i. Sensitising owners of abandoned sugarcane land on potential of breadfruit;

ii. Value addition to produce gluten free flour for both the local and export niche market;

iii. Planting in agro-forestry system to boost the supply chain; and

iv. Provision of schemes to promote bio-production and processing.

3.5.15.8 Mango

Mango, although grown throughout the island, is better adapted to the west and north coasts of

Mauritius. There are many varieties with good sensory attributes which have not been exploited

commercially. Some have the potential for a niche export markets.


i. Encouraging orchard development on abandoned sugarcane lands (west and north coasts);

ii. Stepping up the supply of planting materials for orchard development;

iii. Maintaining anti-bird net scheme to prevent fruit damage by bats;

iv. Develop value addition through processing;

v. Encouraging rejuvenation of old mango trees for easy management; and

vi. Stepping up fruit fly control to increase production of quality fruits.

3.5.15.9 Strawberry

Strawberry is a high-value crop, appropriate for production on the central plateau. It is currently

grown on 5.0 ha with a potential production of 40 tonnes annually. A day-neutral variety, Agathe,

has been established successfully for more than 15 years now.

In support, the following measures are proposed:

i. Maintaining the importation of cold-stored runners as per demand;

ii. Promotion of integrated pest and disease management packages to minimise application of

pesticides;

iii. Scheme to support sustainable pest management and improve marketability; and

iv. Extending financial incentives and anti-bird net schemes for open-field strawberry producers.

3.5.15.10 Emerging fruit species

Lemon, Avocado, Longan and Atemoya are fruits which used to be grown for household

consumption but are gradually gaining economic importance as a result of growing demand from the

local market and the tourist industry.

The following two measures are proposed:

i. Increase availability of planting materials for prompt establishment of orchards; and

ii. Development of pre and post-harvest packages to promote marketability.


3.5.15.11 Underutilised fruit species

There is a wide range of fruit species presently grown in the backyards. These species [jackfruit,

grapefruit, sour orange, mulberry, acerola, jambolan (jambelon), starfruit (carambola), bilimbi, rose

apple (jamrosat), jambos, water apple (jamalac), guava, sugar apple (ate), bullock’s heart (coeur de

boeuf), corrosol (sour sop), hog plum (fruit de cythere), loquat (bibasse), eggfruit (lucuma), jujube,

surinam cherry (roussaille), tamarind, local prune] can indeed be exploited for the local and the

tourist markets.

The above referred fruits can usefully be integrated in an agro-forestry system and can be helpful to

reduce erosion, promote bio-diversity and contribute to carbon credits through carbon sequestration.

However, they are little known, and would require an information campaign (including schools) to

promote their nutritive value, consumption (fresh and processed) and eventually up-scale their

production.

3.5.15.12 Medicinal plants

Mauritius has a rich pool of medicinal plants. Unfortunately, it has been under-utilised by the general

public and knowledge of their traditional uses is gradually disappearing. However, in recent years

they have received research attention which has generated ample documentation on their botany and

economic value.

Recent trends show that people are increasingly going back to natural cures, which opens a new

avenue for diversification and value addition. Indeed, some herbal tea and medicinal plants are now

on produced and processed locally, and commercialised even abroad. Potential thus exists for their

exploitation on commercial scale. The preservation of this component of our biodiversiy is also

necessary.

3.6 Agro-processing

Mauritius has the unique advantage of blending Indian, Chinese, European and African cuisines,

which has given rise to commercial products, namely pickles, sweet and sour and sugar-based

products such as jam, jelly and marmalade. However, it has to contend with competition from

imported products. Locally, there is opportunity for further expansion with the range of fruits and

vegetables grown in Mauritius which can be dehydrated, frozen or processed into innovative

convenience food. Starchy crops (breadfruit, cassava, sweet potato, taro) can also be converted into

flour and sold in speciality/health shops (gluten-free flour).

The sector has potential to create employment and business opportunities for young entrepreneurs

and women. This sector can expand the market for primary agricultural produce, and contribute to

value addition, and help minimise post-harvest losses and food wastage. It can also contribute to

import substitution and increases export earnings.

In that regard, the implementation of the value chain approach can assist the emergence of new agro-

entrepreneurs and for the development of innovative products. This new breed of agro-entrepreneurs

should nonetheless show professionalism and commitment towards the environment and consumers

through adoption of GAP and/or other norms and standards.

Agro-entrepreneurs should be guided towards emerging opportunities and technologies through

awareness and sensitisation. Information on new avenues should be more readily accessible by

common means (media and internet). However, the biggest challenge faced by agro processing

entrepreneurs is their inability to meet the required norms.


i. Creation of an Agro-processing Park, complete with buildings, equipment, mentoring,

advisory services and financial services, and including incubator facilities to support budding

agro-processors;

ii. Encouraging grouping of operators into clusters to reduce cost of production, improve

economies of scale and take advantage of market opportunities including access to new

markets. This can improve access to Fair Trade markets while reducing their cost of

production and improving economy of scale;


iii. Support to clusters of entrepreneurs willing to engage in commercial production of

convenience food (fresh cuts, minimally processed vegetables and fruits);

iv. Providing incentive schemes to operators to upgrade their agro-processing operations;

v. Promoting success stories through reviving the Farmers Excellence Award;

vi. Support to agro-entrepreneurs through capacity building and incubation facility;

vii. Providing marketing support for sale of produce; and

viii. Improving market access through compliance to certification schemes and bar coding.

3.7 Sustainable Agriculture

Food crop production locally heavily relies on the use of agro-chemicals particularly pesticides and

fertilisers. Sustainable agriculture is an alternative approach that maximises the reliance on natural,

renewable on-farm inputs while ensuring long-term environment protection, health benefits and

economic viability.

The Ministry of Agro Industry and Food Security has made provision for a Green Certification

Scheme of growers’ production through a local standard called MAURIGAP. It is a minimum

quality assurance programme that focuses on food safety while ensuring sustainable production

practices.

In this context, research is focusing on:

i. Development of sustainable practices based on resource conservation technologies and meant

to optimise use of natural resources (land, water, organic matter);

ii. Introduction and testing of eco-friendly alternatives to agro-chemicals;

iii. Integrated Pest and Disease Management including bio-control;

iv. Development of Integrated Plant Nutrition Systems;

v. Use of appropriate crop varieties;

vi. Improved or sustained crop productivity;

vii. Protecting the natural environment;

viii. Climate change adaptation and coping strategies; and

ix. Research on agro-forestry and alternative land-use options such as biomass production for

energy.

However, technical solutions are not enough. Farmers will have to be motivated to shift towards

sustainable production systems. All the agencies supporting the implementation of the National

Climate Change Adaptation policy must be assisted in their endeavour to improve the resilience of

small-scale farmers. An enabling environment must therefore be created for institutions and farmers

alike. To that effect, the following support measures are proposed:

i. Maintaining the schemes for the purchase of efficient irrigation system/fertigation equipment/

Rain water harvesting;

ii. Capacity building and sensitisation of farmers on sustainable agriculture;

iii. Encouraging the maintenance of long-term soil fertility via improvement in soil microbial life,

soil organic carbon, nutrient recycling by making use of bio-fertilisers;

iv. Conservation and use of local agro-biodiversity/local seed production/plant propagation;

v. Evaluating alternative land use options such as biomass production for energy; and

vi. Introducing new techniques such as pollinators in production systems.

3.8 Bio-farming

With the growing concern of consumers over the negative impact of agro chemicals, there is an

increasing demand for safe fruits and vegetables. The Government’s policy for bio-food production


encourages farmers to avoid recourse to synthetic agro-chemicals and shift to eco-friendly crop

production and protection approaches viz. pesticide-free production, bio-farming, zero

budget/natural farming and permaculture. In Budget 2015, Government set a target of 50% of local

food to be produced according to bio-norms within 5 years. The Government plans to place 100 ha

of land at the disposal of planters to establish model bio-farms. This will require a re-orientation of

production practices; a drastic change in farmers’ mindset vis-à-vis agro-chemicals; and a

willingness to act responsibly for the community’s benefit.

Since 2014, a national project funded by UNDP is being implemented and 4 workshops have been

organised to sensitise farmers on zero-budget/natural farming. Demonstration plots have also been

set to demonstrate the use of locally-prepared soil enricher, organic mulch, mixed cropping, use of

companion and trap crops, crop rotation and plant-based insecticides/ fungicides in vegetables

production.

Furthermore since January 2014, an experiment station of FAREI at Pamplemousses has been

converted as a model to showcase production of fruits and vegetables without agro-chemical inputs.

To meet the Government’s vision, the following measures are proposed:

i. Sensitisation of the public on the importance of consuming bio-food, and valuing the

difference;

ii. Development of bio-production protocols.

iii. Establishment of dedicated bio-farming zones, and the relevant conditions to be imposed on

land use and crop management;

iv. Training of farmers in production of bio-food production;

v. Provision of support schemes for the purchase of inputs/equipment for bio-farming;

vi. Promoting markets for produce from fields in the process of conversion to organic;

vii. Introduction of a bio-farming certificate to encourage bio-food production;

viii. Review of Dangerous Chemicals Control Act to regulate the import and use of bio-pesticides;

ix. Review of Chemical Fertilizers Act to regulate the import and use bio-fertilisers and other

organic fertilisers, growth promoters and additives such as dyes and colorants; and

x. Harmonising and standardising procedures for the evaluation of plant protection products, and

soil conditioners for use in bio-farming.

3.9 Permaculture

Permaculture is quite prominent among the various forms of sustainable farming. It applies

integrated farming practices that are based on principles learned from the study of natural

ecosystems. Its key objectives are to bring food production closer to consumers, to restore soil

fertility, and to cultivate land in ways that maximise long term productivity, while minimising

artificial inputs and effort.

It relies on small-scale, land and energy-efficient, multi-cropping systems, and thereby avoids and

reverses the problems caused by modern, intensive agriculture. Permaculture favours the cooperative

approach, and build communities around food production. It encourages healthy and sustainable

food habits.

In open farming, it favours complex ecosystems of plants and organisms that are virtually self-

sustaining. It builds on Nature’s adaptability via biodiversity, and relies on mixed cropping and

recycling of plant nutrients through composting. Permaculture also embraces closed farming

approaches such as planting in containers and using soil-less techniques (hydro and aeroponics).

While it is more complicated to implement, it is relatively easy to manage once established. It

requires however an intimate understanding of the eco-system, and small commercial farmers would

be faced with a prolonged learning period they can hardly afford. A gradual phase-in may be needed.


3.10 Plant Protection

Agricultural pests and diseases constitute a major constraint to agricultural production under local

climatic conditions. Globalisation, increasing tourist traffic and a trend towards open-market access

are placing additional pressures on our border control and quarantine services. During the last ten

years, 30 new plant pests (14 insect pests and 16 disease organisms) have been detected, and many

of them are causing significant losses in horticultural crops namely tomato, banana, papaya and

chilli. Furthermore, pest dynamics evolve as a result of climate change, and several outbreaks of

existing pests and diseases have been recorded. This has sadly led planters to rely more on chemical

pesticides.

To counter these new threats, a surveillance system was established in 2005 for early detection of

new pests and diseases, and outbreaks of existing ones for timely intervention by planters. Packages

developed for Integrated Pest & Disease Management (IPDM) were disseminated and brought about

significant reductions in pesticide use in the cultivation of several horticultural crops, namely

cabbage, cucurbits, strawberry and papaya. To assist with rapid plant disease diagnosis, molecular

techniques are now being used at FAREI’s Plant Pathology Laboratory.

Similarly, biological control was successfully implemented for the control of the papaya mealy bug,

an invasive pest detected in 2013. Earlier, bio-control agents were successfully reared in the

laboratory and released in farmers’ fields for the control of Plutella sp. In crucifers and for red spider

mites.

Under these circumstances, plant protection is a real challenge. The difficulty is to develop and

disseminate effective IPDM packages in a timely manner to reduce farmers’ dependence on

chemical pesticides in pest and disease management. To that end, the following measures are

therefore proposed:

i. Upgrading FAREI’s Entomology Laboratory to increase its capacity for mass production of

bio-control agents; and for accreditation to ISO 17025;

ii. Setting up a Multipurpose Containment Facility (MCF) for containment of genetically

modified organisms; investigation of high-risk quarantine materials and pathogen; and speedy

introduction, testing, breeding and multiplication of biological control agents.

iii. Strengthening the surveillance system for timely detection of new pests and diseases, reporting

of outbreaks of existing ones; and institutional network for information exchange;

iv. Application of ICT for rapid communication in pest and disease diagnosis; and maintaining

the flash SMS Alert for pest and disease outbreaks;

v. Maintaining an island-wide integrated fruit fly management programme in cucurbits using

eco-friendly techniques (application of protein bait sprays, mass trapping of males and release

of sterile flies);

vi. Capacity building for technical staff on taxonomy of pests and diseases;

vii. Training planters in pest and disease identification and protection technologies including

IPDM packages; and

viii. Providing support schemes for adoption of eco-friendly technologies and inputs.

3.11 Agricultural Biotechnology

Agricultural biotechnology is an important tool that is already being used for the improvement of

crops; rapid disease screening and tissue culture for mass multiplication of disease-free plant

materials. Laboratories involved in agricultural biotechnology have been upgraded through the

National Agricultural Biotech Laboratory Consortium/Network.

Protocols for in-vitro propagation have been developed for crops such as breadfruit, potato,

colocasia, ornamentals, fodder and bio-fuel plant. During 2010-2014, about 126,000 in-vitro plants

of breadfruit, banana and anthurium were supplied to growers by FAREI’s Tissue Culture

Laboratory as well as 56,000 plantlets of orchids, banana and anthurium.


Beyond propagation of plants, biotechnology should now be oriented to support sustainable systems

through the production of renewable biological resources as agricultural inputs (bio-fertilizer, bio-

pesticides, bio-enzymes and compost activators).

To support the development of the sector and meet the increasing demand for new varieties and

clean in-vitro plantlets and biological resources, the following measures are proposed:

i. Increase multiplication and supply of in-vitro propagated plants and clean planting materials;

ii. Application of molecular techniques for rapid pest and disease screening thus enabling better

control;

iii. Breeding programmes for novel varieties;

iv. Establishment of a legal framework for promoting innovation and product protection with the

introduction of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR); and

v. Appropriate infrastructure and capacity for production of biological resources for use as

agricultural inputs.

3.12 Irrigation

The Government of Mauritius through the Irrigation Authority has invested around one billion

rupees in the development of irrigation schemes over the past 30 years for boosting sugar cane

production in irrigated areas like the Northern Plains and promoting intensive food crop production

at Small Scale Irrigation Project at Belle Mare, Plaisance, Palma and Rivière du Rempart.

Over the past 3 years, the irrigated area has remained unchanged. However, more sugar cane land is

being converted for food crop cultivation. Some 17,183 ha (out of the total irrigable area of 28,000

ha of land) are being irrigated of which 1,739 ha are under vegetable and fruit cultivation. The total

area falling under the jurisdiction of the Irrigation Authority (IA) is 4,000ha, occupied by 5,200

small planters. Around 20% of the area (800 ha) is under food crop cultivation and some 10% (400

ha) are abandoned.

The presence of abandoned lands within irrigation projects is a major limiting factor to the optimum

use of irrigation systems. Abandoned lands cause wastage of water especially under centre-pivot

irrigation schemes and thus, a loss of earning for the IA. There is a need to encourage farmers to

diversify to high income crops and increase their profitability and reduce the extent of abandoned

lands within irrigation projects. Rehabilitation of these abandoned lands offers the scope for

production of vegetable and fruit crops.


i. Rehabilitation and consolidation of existing irrigation networks and schemes for a more

judicious and efficient use of available water resources;

ii. Replacement of old and worn irrigation equipment and logistic to ensure optimization of water

use in irrigated agriculture;

iii. Promotion of the use of water efficient irrigation system;

iv. Capacity building of trainers and farmers in efficient irrigation water management;

v. Review of the price of water in view to encourage planters in efficient use of irrigation water;

vi. Development of new irrigation schemes in areas where main pipe networks have already been

laid (A5 pipeline for Blocks 4, 5, 6 & 7 of NPIP Phase 2) and implementation of Stage 2 of

Midlands Dam for mobilization of additional water resource;

vii. Funds for conversion of irrigation systems originally meant for sugar cane (low frequency,

high precipitation) to systems adaptable to vegetables and food crops (high frequency, low

precipitation); and

viii. Introduction of appropriate technologies for the design, operation and maintenance of different

types of irrigation systems.


3.13 Marketing

Fresh produce is traditionally marketed by small growers through an auction system and the produce

moves on to municipal markets and village fairs. The conditions obtaining the auction system are ill-

adapted and unacceptable from the sanitary viewpoint, especially in Port Louis. In fairs especially,

there is some direct sales by retailers to consumers, and sometimes by farmers themselves to

consumers much like in a farmer’s market. Now that more supermarkets and hypermarkets are in

operation, these are fast becoming an alternative channel for consumers. Present marketing

conditions at the national level of fruits and vegetables are considered as unsatisfactory by almost all

operators of the production and marketing chain.

Some controlled products, notably onions, potatoes, garlic are marketed through the Agricultural

Marketing Board (AMB) which offers other services among which marketing and price stabilization.

Accordingly, MAIFS will set up a National Wholesale Market (NWM) with the objective of

reorganizing the wholesale marketing for fruits and vegetables at national level, and thereby creating

a concentrated volume in a single place. This should bring market efficiency, synergies and cost-

sharing between operators, better transparency, modern and adequate premises to the whole fruits

and vegetable system. The National Wholesale Market will managed by AMB.

Elsewhere, bio-farmers are showing an increasing interest for alternative marketing channels such as

direct (one-on-one) marketing, earth market, roadside stalls, farmers’ market, ‘community supported

gardens’ and food hubs. Consumers have increasing concerns about food safety issues and wish for

more control over their food supply, and they are willing to pay a premium price for it. Here in

Mauritius, roadside stalls exist and some farmers do market their own produce, but these channels

are not well structured. Earth markets are now being launched, and attracting some attention.

3.14 Supply of planting materials

The adequate and timely availability of quality seeds and planting materials is a pre-requisite for

achieving the targets set for food security. The annual national seed requirement is estimated around

16 tonnes (excluding bean and potato seeds). However, there is increasing difficulty to meet the

requirements for quality planting materials due to the marked increase in demand for food crops and

fruits.

The Agricultural Services plays a key role in the production and supply of seeds of vegetable crops

as well as seedlings, grafts and layers of fruit trees. In 2014, about 1,154 tonnes of seeds of more

than 20 vegetable crops were produced. Under the Quality Declared Seeds (QDS) Scheme, about

1,150 kg of seeds [cucurbits (700 kg); bean (300 kg); onion (139 kg) and cauliflower (5 kg)] were

produced in a joint venture with Agricultural Services/Planters/FAREI.

Tissue-culture plantlets of fruits trees (banana) and ornamentals are regularly produced and sold by

both Agricultural Services and Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (FAREI).

However, the supply of planting materials for orchard development or backyard growing by the

Agricultural Services is extremely tedious and slow, with unduly long waiting times. It must be

stepped up to encourage the setting up of orchards, which can provide an opportunity for land

moving out of sugarcane.

In order to produce sufficient food crop seeds as well as fruit and ornamental plants to meet the

development objectives of the sector, the following measures are proposed:

i. Maintaining support to the Quality Declared Seeds (QDS) project and extending the range of

food crops; and encouraging more planters to undertake seed production as an agri-business;

ii. Creating enabling environment for agro-entrepreneurs and the corporate sector to undertake

QDS and produce planting materials for orchard and ornamental crops;

iii. Facilitating the introduction of elite and disease-free germplasm for diversification of food

production and ornamentals production; and

iv. Increasing the production of high-value and disease-free tissue culture plantlets.

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4. LIVESTOCK SECTOR

4.1 Background

Our dependency on imports renders the nation food insecure, especially with soaring food prices and

price fluctuations, rising costs of freight, international political disturbances and uncertainties in

exporting countries, and climatic variations all of which impact significantly on the national

economy. The risks associated with imports call for production of at least a buffer stock for

strategic/security reasons. The aim of the livestock sector development is thus to boost local

production and marketing of milk, meat, poultry and related value-added products, thereby increasing

food self-sufficiency and the sector’s contribution to economy.

The agricultural sector has since long been concentrated on sugar-cane leaving limited land for

production of other food commodities. Lately, pressure on agricultural land has come from projects

of greater economic value in other sectors (tourism, IRS/RES) and stifled the agricultural sector,

more specifically the livestock sub-sector. However, within the new trade environment and following

the phasing out of preferential trade agreements, diversification of agriculture away from sugar

production presents significant opportunities for livestock development to meet local demand and

reduce imports. Livestock production can thus contribute to nutritional and food security and in the

process provide employment opportunities, enhance income and improve the livelihood of farmers.

For years the sector has been constrained mainly by high cost of animal feed and also by limited

number of commercial farms, lack of appropriate breeding stock, insufficient land allocated for

livestock activities and fodder production, low adoption rate of good husbandry practices by farmers,

inadequate veterinary services, and pressure from environmental and sanitary laws.

In recent strategic plans, namely Vision 2020, Blueprint for a Sustainable Diversified Agri Food

Sector 2008-2015, Food Security Fund Strategic Plans 2008-2011 and 2013 -2015, various measures

were proposed to spearhead development in the sector and open up new avenues. Recommendations

to address problems and remove impediments to development related inter alia to the upgrading and

re-organization of the veterinary services, tagging and registration of animals, re-organisation of the

illegal slaughter squad of the MMA, setting up of a meat-and-milk advisory board, etc. While these

were pre-requisites for the success of the Food Security Fund Strategic Plan (FSFSP), the targets

were not fully achieved.

Sustaining an adequate level of meat and milk production is still the major challenge facing the

livestock sector, which has now to face additional issues arising from climate change and concerns

for food safety along the commodity value chain. These explain why this development programme is

designed to be environment friendly and sustainable with focus on bio-farming. To address these

additional factors, a concerted, participatory approach is essential within each sub-sector by way of a

stakeholders’ forum to formulate and follow-up on appropriate policies/strategies and actions

relevant to each commodity value chain.

4.2 Analysis of the current situation

At any one time, Mauritius has an estimated livestock population of 6,000 cattle (800 farmers),

26,600 goats (2600 farmers), 2,700 sheep (200 farmers), 65,000 deer (58 production units), 17,500

pigs (450 farmers), 2,000 rabbits (170 farmers) and 4.6 million birds (500 farmers). These farmers

produce around 5 million litres of milk, 1,300 tonnes of meat, 47,000 tonnes poultry meat and around

200 million eggs. The contribution of livestock to agricultural GDP improved from 13.5% to 23%

over the period 2006-2013. Nonetheless, in 2014 local production met only 9% of our requirements

for meat (excluding poultry) and 4% for milk, whilst 100% self-sufficiency was maintained for

poultry meat, eggs and venison.

Over the period 2006-2013, the value of imports for dairy products increased from MUR 1.2 billion

to MUR 2.1 billion while imports of meat and meat preparations increased from MUR 1.9 billion to

MUR 3.4 billion representing an average overall increase of 77 % for milk and meat. The evolution

of the farmer population, livestock numbers and production, and per capita consumption of livestock

products for the period 2006 to 2014 is shown in Annex 2.


4.3 Dairy

The dairy sub-sector has been and still is largely characterized by traditional backyard producers

operating singly on a low-input-low-output system of production, and are dispersed geographically

throughout the island. The number of farmers and dairy cattle changed significantly from 1716

farmers rearing 6,934 heads in 2006 to reach 816 farmers rearing 6,041 heads in 2014. It must be

noted that the latter figure includes a total of 2,223 breeding heifers imported by two companies

during the intervening period.

Milk production increased from 3.3 million litres in 2008 to reach 6 million litres in 2012 due mainly

to the coming in operation of two corporate farms with a starting herd size of around 825 heads under

the Village Laitier project. However, milk production for 2014 is estimated at only 5 million litres.

This follows possibly from decisions taken by Government since 2009 to disengage in certain core

activities, which led to the closing down of (i) the Milk Marketing Scheme operated by the

Agricultural Marketing Board for milk collection, (ii) the Livestock Feed Factory, which previously

supplied low-cost animal feed, and (iii) the Livestock Production Unit at Palmar as a supplier of

breeding stock. These changes impacted negatively on the sector, leading to a reduction in the

number of cow-breeders and in herd-size and causing farmers to revert to poor animal feeding

practices, thereby resulting in a significant decrease in both production and productivity.

New schemes set up in 2009 under the Food Security Fund provided support to dairy farmers to

construct/renovate cowsheds, purchase equipment, acquire improved breeding animals and cultivate

fodder. However, their impact on milk production was not significant. Productivity was low due to

delays in procuring breeding animals, poor management and husbandry practices adopted by

beneficiaries, and high mortality rate.

4.4 Beef

The supply of fresh beef on the local market is undertaken by some 245 farmers who do fattening

only and an additional 571 farmers who do both dairy-keeping and beef fattening. Some private

companies import young animals which are fattened until slaughter whereas the small livestock

farmers raise mainly the male calves originating from the dairy sector.

Local beef production (including animals from Rodrigues but excluding imported animals fattened

for slaughter) has witnessed a drastic decline over the years from 450 tonnes in 1990 to reach its

lowest production of 27 tonnes in 2008 as reported in Slaughter Statistics 2008 of Mauritius Meat

Authority, mainly as a result of liberalisation in 1996. Following the implementation of support

measures to revamp the sector, production increased to 180 tonnes in 2011, but that increase was not

sustained and production dropped back to 60 tonnes in 2014 representing a self-sufficiency of only

1%.

The local market is relatively inelastic as illustrated by the stability in the consumption per capita

which stands at 4.47 kg per year. It is observed that there is almost no fluctuation in price of beef

throughout the year. However, the price for live animals do rise but exclusively due to a one-off rise

in demand for the Eid festival (Qurbani).

The supply of live fattened beef animals is not secured as it depends on availability on the external

market, sanitary barriers as well as the severely restricted availability of livestock carriers. In

addition, the demand and the price keep increasing. Besides, previous schemes launched in 2010 for

importation of weaners and for 2 pilot beef farms did not materialise. Hence the need to increase the

local production is highly justified and new incentives are needed for importation of weaners and

production of breeding stock. Considering the limited land available for beef fattening, it is proposed

to target a production of 250 tonnes representing a self-sufficiency of around 10.5% for fresh beef by

2020.

4.5 Pig

Pig production is carried out across the island by some 450 pig breeders rearing a pig population of

18,000 heads. The farms are concentrated at Albion, Olivia, St. Martin and Bassin Requin. Some

40% of local pig production comes from St. Martin and Bassin Requin. More than 90 % of the pig

breeders are engaged in both fattening and breeding activities, 8% in fattening solely and 2% in

breeding activities only. At present 10 cooperative societies are active and are regrouped under two


federations. The level of animal husbandry and waste management poor, and producers have

difficulty to comply with environmental and health regulations. High cost of feed is a serious issue.

A Pig Steering Committee has been set up to monitor the relocation of pig breeders at St Martin and

setting up of reproductive farms.

Following the outbreak of African Swine Fever in 2007 and measures taken to re-launch pig

production, the population witnessed a rapid increase to peak at 23,285 heads in 2011. This over-

production has impacted negatively on the sub-sector resulting in poor feeding practices, production

of poor carcasses and illegal slaughter. Slaughter statistics has since shown a sustained reduction in

number of pigs slaughtered at the Central Abattoir with pork production decreasing from 650 tonnes

in 2011 to 558 tonnes in 2014. Imports of frozen pork also increased to reach 1,025 tonnes in 2014 as

locally produced carcasses do not match the quality required by processors.

There is no structured marketing system for pork. The marketing of fattened pigs is mainly

dominated by middlemen and butchers. One Government-owned slaughter house, 18 registered

butchers, four processing plants and a dozen of meat shops are presently supporting the pig industry.

There is no carcass grading system and carcass quality is generally poor. The system also lacks

facilities such as a ‘salle de découpe’ to process pig meat into value-added products.

4.6 Goat/Sheep

Following the drastic decline in the national goat herd from 72,696 heads in 1983 to 29,281 heads

(2,600 farmers) in 2014, concerted effort and government incentives contributed to reverse this trend

and the goat/sheep population increased to 30,107 heads (by 3,050 farmers) in 2011. However, both

the national herd and the number of farmers have remained unchanged up to 2014, despite support

measures from both Government and service providers. This is explained by the limited capacity of

existing farms to increase herd size, coupled with space restrictions and environmental constraints

since most of these farmers operate in their backyard and in residential zones.

Based on abattoir slaughter statistics, local production of goat meat has increased from 18.7 tonnes in

2008 to 28.4 tonnes in 2014 with a peak in production of 45 tonnes in 2011. On the other hand, there

has been a significant decrease in the slaughter of imported goats from 67 tonnes in 2006 to only 9

tonnes in 2014, possibly explained by increasing slaughter at home (i.e. not accounted in

slaughterhouse statistics) and/or consumer preference for local goat meat.

In general, interest for goat rearing has rekindled among existing and prospective farmers for the

production of young animals for breeding or for fattening for meat. However, further development in

the goat sector is hindered by acute shortage of parent stock and the high level of mortality prevailing

on goat farms. Measures to boost the sector have involved the importation of improved breeds as well

as financial support for the setting-up of multiplier goat farms.

This renewed interest has also extended to sheep production. Sheep show hardiness compared to

goats, which are affected by diseases (Contagious Caprine Pleuro-pneumonia, goat pox, pneumonia,

etc.). Following action taken to promote and encourage sheep production, the sheep population

increased two-fold during the period 2006 to 2014, with the present herd size standing at around

2,700 heads.

4.7 Venison

Deer farming has now established itself as a full-fledged economic activity and forms an integral part

of the livestock sector. Venison has become the main source of red meat consumed by all ethnic

groups, and is well appreciated by tourists.

The bulk (90%) of the venison is produced on some 50 extensive deer chassées while the remaining

10% comes from 8 intensive farms. The total acreage occupied by the deer sub-sector is estimated at

25,000 hectares of which 15,000 are privately owned and 10,000 area leased State forest lands. The

local deer population is estimated at 65,000 heads of which an estimated 20,000 heads are reared on

State lands. The remaining 45,000 are reared on private lands and include around 10,000 heads

reared in intensive farms on about 1,000 hectares.

During the last 10 years, the annual production of venison fluctuated between 450 and 500 tonnes, of

which 350 to 400 tonnes are produced on private farms and 100 tonnes on State lands. The totality of


venison produced is disposed of quite easily on the local market with a per capita consumption of

0.44 kg per annum. Most of it is marketed exclusively during the hunting season (June to

September). Only 15 to 20 tonnes are produced by intensive farms during the close season, and

carcasses are processed at the Central Abattoir and marketed by the Mauritius Deer Farming Co-

operative Society Limited. However, production from intensive farms declined from 44 tonnes in

2009/2010 to 14.4 tonnes in 2014, which is attributed to transfer of breeding animals to chassées.

4.8 Poultry

The country is self-sufficient in chicken meat and eggs, with annual production in 2014 standing at

47,500 tonnes for meat and 200 M eggs.

However, the country still imports other poultry species (ducks, turkeys, quails, etc.) and pre-cooked

poultry products. In recent years, the import of processed poultry products rose from 1,200 tonnes in

2006 to 3,800 tonnes in 2014, equivalent to around 8% of total production. In order to increase the

competitiveness of the sector, support is needed to poultry operators/new entrepreneurs to increase

production efficiency and to engage in further processing of poultry meat.

Furthermore, the industry is highly dependant on imported raw materials for feed manufacture

although it has shown its resilience to price increases. It is also threatened by the possible

introduction of highly pathogenic diseases such as Avian Flu, thereby increasing its vulnerability.

Other concerns facing poultry producers are waste disposal and shortage of labour.

4.8.1 Turkey

MAIFS is also encouraging farmers to embark in turkey production. Rearing of locally-adapted

turkey breeds used to be an artisanal activity but productivity was low.

Lately, the Poultry Breeding Centre at AS has imported two batches of hybrids on a trial basis to

supply local turkey keepers operating at backyard level. Some 30 small breeders are now raising 2-3

heads, and 20 larger ones are raising 5-10 heads each. However, there are some practical difficulties

over mating of parent stock that need to be sorted out before scaling up production.

Turkey meat, traditionally consumed on special occasions, is now consumed all year round and is

well appreciated by health conscious people on account of its low fat and high protein content. Since

2009, the import of turkey and derived products has increased fourfold from 103 tonnes to 406 tonnes

valued at MUR 43.3 M in 2013.

4.8.2 Other poultry species

The supply of day-old broilers and layers by the Ministry of Agro Industry and Food Security poultry

breeding centre has been toned down, and the existing facilities are now concentrated on

diversification opportunities and geared towards promoting other poultry species. Rearing of ducks

and turkeys among others are promising avenues for diversification of the production base.

Local production of duck is mainly carried out by private companies which are involved in the

importation of parent stock, production of ducklings, fattening and preparation of speciality products

(fatty liver, magret, confit, etc.). There are around 300 farmers engaged in backyard duck-rearing and

three large companies producing in total more than 300 tonnes of duck meat annually. To promote

the production and consumption of ducks, the Poultry Breeding Centre of the MAIFS has been

supplying around 1,200 ducklings each month to small farmers.

4.9 Rabbit

Rabbit rearing is traditionally carried out to cater for a selected/ niche market in terms of meat for

consumption and secondly for the pet industry. Rabbit is classified as a white meat and considered a

major source of protein. Rabbit production can be promoted easily within a short period as rabbits are

prolific breeders and grow fast. Moreover rabbit production does not require high initial investment.

Rabbit production has increased from some 3,400 rabbits (272 farmers) in 2006 to over 4,500 heads

(340 farmers) in 2010, but has since then witnessed a decline to only 170 farmers owning some 1,900

heads in 2014. The factors contributing to this drastic decrease are presumably the closure of the

Livestock Feed Factory which resulted in a three-fold price increase for concentrate feed; shortage of

quality breeding animals; and absence of a regular market for rabbit meat. Several new entrepreneurs


have expressed interest to move into rabbit-rearing on a medium scale but are concerned about the

marketing aspects.

4.10 Fodder production

Fodder production constitutes an important component in livestock production and the tradition has

been to collect free fodder wherever available and sugar-cane tops during the cane-harvest season.

Due to decreasing availability of fodder sites as a result of urbanisation, fodder cultivation has now

become a sine-qua-non activity and should be integrated in livestock production.

Research programmes for the development of fodder production has identified appropriate fodder

species with high nutritive value. Support by way of grant schemes provided to encourage and

promote fodder production has led to fresh plantation of around 90 hectares. Such high-quality fodder

in ruminant production will reduce reliance on concentrate feeds and thereby bring down feed costs.

In order to reach targets for 2020, the national livestock herd must increase and accordingly the

fodder and feed requirements are expected to increase across all species. Current requirements of

fodder for ruminants are estimated at 170,000 tonnes annually while projected requirements for 2020

are about 275,000 tonnes. Urgent actions must be initiated to bridge the gap. It is estimated that 600

ha of land will be required by 2020 to cater for this increased fodder requirement.

4.11 Apiculture

Apiculture is practiced mainly as a part-time activity in Mauritius. There are currently 240

beekeepers keeping some 2,000 bee colonies. Annual honey production is expected to drop from 35

tonnes to less than 20 owing to infestation by the varroa mite, and as a result honey importation will

increase well above the current 100 tonnes annually.

Since August 2014, the honey industry faces a new, serious threat. The varroa mite, the most

destructive pest of honey bees, was detected in the western part of the island. Immediately, a

containment/eradication plan was implemented, and 260 bee colonies (including wild ones) that were

affected with varroa mite were eliminated.

Good honey yield is dependent upon adequate sources of nectar from different natural and cultivated

melliferous plants. Unfortunately, the area under melliferous plants, especially Campèche and

Eucalyptus has been decreasing over the years to provide space mainly for urbanization.

The two main limiting factors for the expansion of apiculture in Mauritius are the varroa mite and the

shortage of melliferous plants. Apiculture can only be boosted by the control (and eventual

eradication) of the varroa mite coupled with the plantation of suitable melliferous plants in the

forests, along roads and in landscaping sites.

4.12 SWOT analysis at the sub-sector level

Strengths

Government initiatives to boost up livestock production and supply of safe food to the

population, plus a strong commitment to deploy resources, release land and implement

special schemes.

Existing institutions for provision of support services such as training, research, extension

and veterinary care, with a pool of experienced staff, technical skills and essential

infrastructure.

Farmer’s experience

Emergence of some medium-sized and market-oriented producers.

Easy trainability of the existing operators and most of the potential operators.

No major notifiable animal diseases

Increased vigilance in disease control and prevention (early warning system, rapid alert

system and contingency plans)

Weaknesses

High cost of production, inputs and technologies, hence adversely affecting competitiveness

Limited access to land, labor, capital and agricultural machinery


Low adoption of good animal husbandry practices

Difficulties to import good quality breeding animals

Lack of cooperation among farmers to cluster for economies of scale

Inadequate infrastructure, market intelligence and value addition

Difficulties to comply with environmental exigencies

Inadequate food safety system

Inappropriate legislation in the sector

Lack of organised market structure and market intelligence

Ageing farming community

Labour scarcity

Opportunities

Possibility to improve service delivery by joint review processes and by better coordination

across the Ministry

Setting up of regional livestock zones and multiplier farms for goats and heifers; more land

available for non-sugar sector following reforms in the sugar industry

High demand for livestock products; increasing consumer awareness for safer food

Increase vigilance in disease control and prevention (early warning system, rapid alert system

and contingency plans)

Public Private Partnership for operating small scale abattoirs

Possibility for updating and harmonizing regulations

Increased scope of accreditation of Food Technology Laboratory.

Availability of by-products for use as animal feeds

Emergence of new target groups in the sector (agribusinesses, investors, sugar planters

diversifying, vulnerable groups, retrenched workers, women, unemployed, youth).

Risks

Failing to improve service delivery (implications for beneficiaries and services)

Low interest of stakeholders in the livestock sector due to low return on investment compared

to other economic sectors

Cheap imports of dairy, meat and meat products, and risks of dumping from other countries.

Risks of introducing animal diseases and zoonoses.

Urbanisation and development of non-agricultural activities

Climate change

Competition for land for infrastructure and bio-mass production for fuel.

4.13 Emerging challenges

1. Urbanisation and development of non-agricultural activities

2. New trading environment whereby food safety, disease control and surveillance and animal

welfare, etc. are taking global proportions

3. Increasing consumer awareness for safer foods and the use of eco-friendly practices, coupled

with the implementation of the zero pesticides residue regulations in the European Union

4. Emergence of new target groups in the agricultural sector (agribusinesses, investors, sugar

planters diversifying, vulnerable groups, retrenched workers, women, unemployed, youth, VRS).

5. Labour scarcity

6. Cheap import of dairy, meat and meat products, and risk of dumping.

7. High cost of quality inputs (feed and fodder)

8. Climate change and adverse environmental factors

9. Re-emerging animal diseases.


4.14 Constraints and problems of farmers

Major problems of livestock farmers, at least among the small farmer community, are of a non-

technical nature and cut across all the main species raised, as follows:

Inadequate availability of land to start livestock projects

lnadequate availability of breeding stock

Lack of finance, and high rates of interest

Inadequate veterinary services

No structured market for livestock products (milk, meat, animals)

High price of livestock feed and inadequate feed subsidy

No insurance scheme for death of animals

Environmental regulations are too stringent

No legislation for registration of farmers and animals

No traceability of animals/no record keeping

No transport facilities to carry fodder

Theft of animals.

In addition, cattle rearing is faced with limited availability of bagasse and its high price; and no safe

way to bury dead animals. Straying of goats is also a problem. Venison presents problems of its own,

and is discussed separately under 4.15 below.

Main technical issues are as follows:

Cattle Low conception rate of cows, hence high calving intervals

Poor milk yield

Inadequate feeding according to physiological status

Poor housing conditions, waste management and hygiene

Stomoxys flies. Goat/Sheep

Poor productivity due to inbreeding, premature mating, worm

infestation and diseases occurrence

Poor assistance for veterinary care. Pig

Inbreeding

Health problems such as diarrhea, pneumonia

Piglet mortality due to crushing by sows and other reasons. Poultry

Health problems such as Newcastle, Coccidiosis

Limited availability of litter

No facilities to analyse the quality of feed. 4.15 The case of Venison

Venison has issues of its own. Its production is constrained by high costs associated with land rent,

wild game farming/stalking annual fees, start-up costs and supplementary feeding. It suffers losses

due to poaching and pests and diseases. Expansion is hampered by limits set on land clearing and

pasture development on leased state land; low stocking density in chassées. Besides, the potential for

export cannot be tapped on account of the non-compliance to EU and other international standards of

the Central Abattoir. But with the introduction of “Halal Certification” and setting up of a new

abattoir to EU norms, it is expected that per capita consumption would increase to 0.5 kg/annum by

2020, and hence annual production would need to be increased to 600 tonnes. To that effect, certain

actions will be necessary:

i. Conducting a survey to document the deer population on deer farms island-wide

ii. Encouraging new entrants in deer farming

iii. Setting up of financial schemes for establishment of new deer farms

iv. Review rental fees and wild game farming/stalking annual fees


v. Ensure new slaughter-house meets EU norms

vi. Ensuring provision and distribution of bagasse and molasses for supplementary feeding

vii. Establishing promising leguminous browse species on deer farms to increase pasture and

animal productivity; and

viii. Re-enforcing measures to combat poaching.

4.16 Opportunities for improving self-sufficiency

On the basis of the existing status of the livestock species, recent trends and in view of the different

incentive schemes already under way, realistic targets have been set for 2020 as presented below

(Table 2). Whilst the levels achievable for poultry, goat/mutton, pork and rabbit reflect a satisfactory

measure of self-sufficiency, concern remains for milk and beef. Nonetheless some progress is

possible if the appropriate conditions are made to prevail.

Turkey presents an opportunity for diversification if the problems of sourcing parent stock is

resolved. Alternatively, local breeding programmes could be initiated for improvement of the local

races once the techniques of artificial insemination would have been mastered. It is too early to set

any target.

Table 2: Production targets for 2020

Production Self Sufficiency

2020 (%) Baseline

2014

Projected

2017

Projected

2020

Milk 5 M litres 6.5 M litres 7.4 M litres 6

Beef 60 t 150 t 200 t 10.5 (fresh beef)

4 (total beef)

Goat/mutton 32.3 t 70 t 100 t 100 (fresh meat)

Venison 440 t 500 t 600 t 100

Pork 558 t 700 850 t 65

Rabbit meat 25 t 30 t 35 t 100

Poultry meat 47,500 t 48,000 t 50,000 t 100

Honey 20 t 25 t 35 t 25

4.17 Priority issues and strategic intervention areas for the Livestock sector

The priority issues are addressed below under into 12 strategic intervention areas which are pre-

requisites to achieve the targets set for 2020 and ultimately for the sustainable development of the

livestock sector, and therefore require immediate attention.

4.17.1 Efficient and harmonised support services

Supporting services from the public sector are important drivers of change and development,

especially for the majority of small-holder livestock farmers. Effective extension services, research,

training and farmer empowerment are necessary interventions to bring about the technological

innovations that are badly required to turn the livestock sector into a commercially viable and

environmentally sustainable sector. These efforts have to be backed up by a regular and reliable

delivery of veterinary services, disease surveillance and preparedness to respond to alerts, as well as

adequate disease control measures.

To that end, the re-organisation of the livestock institutions under MAIFS is necessary. Following a

recent FAO diagnosis, proposals have been made to re-structure the AS so it concentrates on policy,

control and regulatory functions and sheds off its services on to FAREI and other providers. This has

implications for veterinary care and artificial inseminations, free drug scheme amongst others. It is


imperative that the transfer of responsibilities be smooth so that the small farmers are not penalised

or denied service. On positive side, it will bring more livestock services under one management,

which should in principle assure better coordination between extension, research and veterinary care.

It is imperative that the MAIFS proceeds to implement the re-organisation of AS and reviews the

allocation of resources (human, financial and infrastructural) for an effective transition.

4.17.2 Cost of production

Livestock production is highly dependent on imported, costly inputs comprising mainly of animal

feeds and breeding animals. Lack of economies of scale also has a major impact on the cost of

production.

The strategy is to:

i. Facilitate access to feed/fodder by renovating and bringing the Livestock Feed Factory back

into operation; by maintaining/ increasing the subsidy on purchased concentrate feeds; and to

by-products (bagasse and molasses) from the cane industry to improve productivity of animals.

ii. Facilitate access to quality breeding animals by setting up heifer farms;

iii. Improve animal productivity by strengthening research and development; improving the

success rate of AI from 30% to 55% (dairy); and capacity building of farmers.

4.17.3 Land availability and environment exigencies

Livestock development is constrained by limited land resources and the environment exigencies

which limit livestock operations in specific areas. Furthermore, initial high capital investment is

required for implementation of projects in the sector. In the Government programme 2015-2019,

mention was made of creation of “special livestock zones” to address problems related to

environment and provision of necessary amenities for sustainable production.

The strategy is to:

i. Identify and set up additional Livestock Zones for cattle and small ruminants, pigs, bio-

farming, fodder production and agro-forestry:

Provision of utilities and infrastructural facilities for operation of farms (Build, Operate

and Lease), efficient production and service delivery;

Clustering of farmers after due sensitisation on benefits of clustering; training and hand-

holding and mentoring;

ii. Identification of appropriate sites for environment- friendly incineration/burial and disposal of

dead animals and slaughter waste; and

iii. Promotion of fodder development.

4.17.4 Public/Private Partnership

Public/Private sector investments and financing are necessary for improvement of productivity and

efficiency along the livestock value chain (production, marketing, processing and consumption

promotion). In order to commercialise livestock production, strategies and interventions proposed

need to be given immediate attention especially with regard to improvement of financial services and

incentives favourable for private sector participation in production, processing and marketing of

livestock and livestock products.

To that effect, the following strategy is proposed :

i. Creation of an enabling environment based on schemes to encourage Public/Private

partnerships and to assist farmers to meet market requirements; and

ii. Promotion of the ‘filière’ (VCA) approach by setting up and facilitating its stakeholder’s

forum.


4.17.5 Legal and Regulatory Framework

Existing legislation for the livestock sector are outdated, and should be reviewed and adapted to

address the present needs. There is also a need to harmonise with other legislations relating to

livestock production, processing and marketing and to formulate new legislation to regulate the

sector.

i. Review and formulation of new legislations and regulatory functions of different

bodies/department of MAIFS, which implies:

Audit of all existing laws and regulations through a consultancy

Review of legislation pertaining to Fishing and Shooting Lease Act.

Enactment of Animal Health Bill

Preparation of Animal Production Bill

Review of Veterinary Council Act.

ii. Setting up appropriate mechanisms for enforcement of regulations and a squad (Police

Agricole) to track illegal activities.

4.17.6 Professionalisation of farmers

Livestock farmers are characterised as traditional, backyard producers operating on a low-input-low-

output system of production, and therefore reluctant to change. There is a need therefore to

professionalise existing farmers and to encourage new entrants in the livestock sector to adopt a

professional approach to farming. To start off, FAREI’s Farmer Training School can provide short

MQA non-award training courses and delivers NTC3 in agriculture to those who are out of the

education mainstream. Specialised training courses with the support of MITD and UoM may follow

for further skill development. In addition, farmers need to be supported in their endeavour through

special programmes destined to improve their welfare.

i. Capacity building, which will imply developing curricula for specialised courses in animal

husbandry and veterinary care; and running certificate courses on animal production and health

(UoM/MITD);

ii. Categorisation of farming community by re-defining small/medium/large scale farmers;

iii. Creation of a unified Registration System for Farmers accessible to all service providers;

iv. Promotion of joint ventures and entrepreneurship by:

v. Running courses on entrepreneurship

vi. Initiating regional exchange programmes

vii. Delivery of “certificate of competency” in livestock activities

viii. Provision of incubator facilities for value addition

ix. Provision of start-up kits.

x. Promoting the use of latest technology/ICT to enhance knowledge of farmers and boost their

production;

xi. Running awareness campaigns to attract professionals (especially from the younger

generation), with incentives for start-ups;

xii. Improving the welfare of farmers by enhancing their quality of life and incentives for socio

economic development; and

xiii. Running Livestock Insurance Schemes or alternative funds to compensate farmers for loss of

animals and other risks.

4.17.7 Breeding stock

Animal genetic resources (AnGR) for food and agriculture are essential for food security and

contribute to the livelihoods of the farmers. However, genetic improvement programs in Mauritius

have favoured the use of exotic breeds for crossbreeding, upgrading, or replacement. These programs


are mostly implemented without clear policies, regulatory frameworks, strategic thinking and a long

term view and motivated by the objective of rapid productivity gains resulting in indiscriminate,

uncoordinated or uncontrolled crossbreeding. The establishment of national breeding

policies/strategies is a recommendation of the FAO and aims at promoting the sustainable use,

development & conservation of animal genetic resources to avoid erosion of animal genetic resources

and indiscriminate cross breeding.

This should be achieved by:

i. Establishing genetic conservation and improvement programmes;

ii. Conservation of local genetic resources driven by incentive schemes for on-farm conservation;

iii. Setting up of a national breeding farm for conservation;

iv. Preparation of breeding plans for all species for genetic improvement, and use of genetically

improved breeds (animal/semen) to upgrade local breeds;

v. Reviewing the AI service and upgrading the AI Lab to ensure ready availability of semen;

vi. Develop private / public partnerships for production of breeding stock; and

vii. Provide legal framework to prevent slaughter of productive breeding animals.

4.17.8 Animal health and veterinary care

Veterinary care is one of the key elements that enable sustainable livestock production. Without an

effective veterinary service, animal production becomes an expensive and difficult endeavour. This

will be addressed within the forthcoming re-structuring of the Agricultural Services. The proposals

therefore comprise of:

i. Review and modernisation of the organisational structure and mandate of the Division of

Veterinary Services

ii. Reinforce Disease Surveillance programmes by strengthening the capacity of Animal Health

Laboratory at DVS for diagnosis of diseases, to be supplemented with MoUs with international

and local reference laboratories for tests which are not run in-house, and training of staff (as

e.g. in epidemiology)

iii. Improve the delivery and effectiveness of animal health care by strengthening of field

intervention capacity for prompt and effective service delivery and the provision of adequate

veterinary drugs and equipment;

iv. Provide training to farmers in basic veterinary care and first-aid for livestock, so they may be

empowered to attend to minor cases and thereby relieve the pressure of public services;

v. Introduction of para-veterinary services so as to reduce the pressure on veterinarians, which

would require appropriate amendments to the Veterinary Council Act to cater for registration

of para-vets; curriculum development for para-vets and formulation of relevant training

programmes for the para-vets after due vetting by the Council.

4.17.9 Food Safety (Veterinary Public Health)

The country is threatened by existing and emerging animal diseases. Moreover, cases of food

poisoning arising from contamination of livestock products call for strict vigilance and establishment

of protocols for monitoring and control. Food safety, disease control and surveillance, and animal

welfare are taking global dimensions in the new trade environment. To that effect, the following

actions are proposed:

i. Enforcement of safety practices at farm level by setting up a ‘Police Agricole’ to monitor

hygiene practices; and encourage adoption of good hygiene practices through incentives and/or

certification;

ii. Capacity building for the monitoring and detection of residues and contaminants in livestock

products and animal feeds; enhancing the control of chemical and microbiological risks at farm

level and in end-products; and strengthening laboratory facilities for rapid diagnosis; and


iii. Ensuring food safety, through an MOU for coordination between MAIFS and Ministry of

Health regarding food safety issues, which would cover, inter alia:

monitoring of poultry slaughter-houses;

inspection and certification of poultry meat;

monitoring of imported meat at entry ports; and

control of veterinary pharmaceutical products.

4.17.10 Boosting apiculture

Boosting apiculture and honey production will be effected by:

i. Increasing the area under melliferous plants

ii. Control of the varroa mite

iii. Improvement to honey quality in the local market.

4.17.11 Marketing of livestock products

Marketing of livestock products in Mauritius can be divided into two major segments: marketing of

imported products and marketing of local products. The absence of a structured marketing channel

for livestock products is a major constraint for the development of the livestock sector. To oversee to

a more orderly marketing, measures are proposed as follows:

i. Construction of a modern Slaughterhouse fully compliant to EU norms.

ii. Setting up of a Trade and Marketing Bureau to encourage farmers to choose formal marketing

channels and help to combat illegal slaughter;

iii. Consideration will be given to the design and operation of mobile slaughter and processing

units e.g. for pork, which would relieve small producers of costly transport;

iv. Setting up new slaughter facilities, and operation of 3 meat shops on its premises;

v. Ensuring the supply of safe deer meat by requiring that all deer carcasses after hunting be

processed at the slaughterhouse for removal of hides and inspection by veterinarians prior to

sale;

vi. Preventing productive female cattle from being slaughtered prematurely, FAREI will operate a

platform to link farmers wishing to sell their animals to dairy farmers who wish to

increase/replace their stock (buyer/seller) or offer the outright purchase of productive animals.

vii. Promotion of entrepreneurship for more value-addition activities;

viii. Setting up of a programme for certification of farmers, farms and farm products, and providing

the necessary human resources and training to match; and

ix. Organisation of an Annual Livestock Fair.

4.17.12 Import/Export of livestock and livestock products

The import of livestock and livestock products is liberalised. Although an Import Permit Committee

operates, the current mechanism to control importation is barely adequate, more especially for the

import of livestock products. For live animals, it has been observed that imports are severely

constrained by the unavailability of a livestock carrier and the excessive cost of chartering one. This

reflects adversely on consumer prices for fresh meat. In order to encourage local industry and to

ensure adequate supply of livestock products to consumers at fair prices, there is need to :

i. Review the import mechanism;

ii. Provide the service of a livestock carrier and associated logistic support to facilitate the

importation of live animals (cattle, sheep and goats) and weaner cattle by butchers and other

stakeholders and entrepreneurs.

4.18 Sustainable livestock production

As a SIDS, Mauritius is especially vulnerable to climate change. Impacts, direct and indirect, can

lead to reduced quality and availability of feed and fodder, can cause greater competition for

resources with other sectors, and increased incidence of pests and diseases leading to lower

productivity and increased mortality of livestock. On the other hand, livestock production itself


contributes to increase Green House Gases directly via methane from enteric fermentation of

ruminants, and this needs to be properly managed.

Moreover, there is increasing concern on methods of production, especially regarding the use of

veterinary products and growth enhancers in intensive livestock production. Besides, animal welfare,

rights of animals and the humane treatment of animals at slaughter are becoming major issues among

civil society organisations.


i. Support adoption of good management practices

Enhancing the use of eco-friendly technologies and farming practices

Education/Sensitisation programme on animal welfare

Improving the pest and disease warning system.

Promoting clean, green and ethical animal production systems

ii. Encouraging the production of small livestock including turkey, duck, rabbit etc. with a

parallel campaign to encourage the public to consume such types of meat.

iii. Promoting bio-farming, which will imply the development of local standards, a package of

incentives for motivate farmers to switch to production of bio-products; and consumer

education over their merits.

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5. FORESTRY

5.1 The current situation of Forestry

About 25% (around 47,103 hectares) of the total land area Mauritius is covered by forests, with an

estimated 25,000 hectares privately-owned and some 22,103 hectares state-owned. Good quality

native forest i.e. having more than 50% native plant cover, is estimated to cover less than 2% of the

island, with the remaining forests consisting of plantation forestry or highly-degraded vegetation

invaded by alien plant and animal species, thereby posing serious threat to biodiversity.

Rapid economic development, limited land area, an increasing population and more lucrative

alternative land uses such as housing development and ranching bring constant pressure to bear on

these forest lands. Thus in recent decades up until 2003-2004, some 10,000 hectares of forest lands

had been cleared mostly for infrastructural developments, e.g. built-up areas, roads, agriculture,

reservoirs, etc. Thankfully, de-forestation has been minimal since, due largely to the rigorous

application of sustainable forest management principles.

5.2 The value of the forest sector

Forests are invaluable assets that need to be conserved and further enhanced, more so for a SIDS

with its unique forest and rich biodiversity, harbouring a high number of native and endemic species.

Forests contribute to the betterment of our daily life, in economic or in environmental terms. Indeed,

forests in small islands are limited in area but have nonetheless great ecological, social and cultural

significance, with their environmental function outweighing their direct economic function.

Forests are the home of our rich biodiversity. With over 690 native flowering plant species and over

180 species of vertebrates and invertebrates, Mauritius has a substantial amount of biodiversity. Out

of these, 55 are endemic and 20 are endangered due to habitat loss, introduced animals and human-

related activities. Thus, Mauritius is reported to have the world’s third most endangered biodiversity.

Especially in Mauritius, the soil and water conservation functions of forests are crucial because the

volume and availability of fresh water determine the level of development of the agricultural,

manufacturing and tourism sectors. Besides, our coastal forests act as buffers against strong winds

and cyclones, and offer a natural backdrop to tourist beaches. Mangroves, where they exist, serve as

nurseries and breeding grounds for numerous fish and shellfish, including shrimps. Coastal forests

and mangroves also help contain soil erosion and sedimentation of coastal waters.

In recent times, since global warming and climate change have come up as major challenges for the

planet, the contribution of forests to vital environmental functions and their potential to mitigate the

ill-effects of global warming have been understood and recognized.

5.3 Carbon Sequestration and Greenhouse effect

Due to man-made hazards, the thin layer of atmosphere that cloak and protect the Earth has

unfortunately been dramatically changed. Carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide are greenhouse

gases that trap some of the sun’s heat and prevent the Earth from freezing. However, unprecedented

levels of human activity such as deforestation and burning of fossil fuels are increasing the

greenhouse gases effect. On the other hand, carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and

storing atmospheric Carbon Dioxide over the long term. Trees and plants do this so well through

photosynthesis, sequestrating carbon during the day, and in the process regenerate oxygen back to

the atmosphere. A single tropical tree can sequestrate up to 23 kg of carbon yearly. On these

accounts, forests are considered as the lungs of the Earth, essential to life and present the main

means to mitigate climate change and global warming.

For these reasons, the conservation and restoration of our native forests are of highest priority. These

are reflected in the National Forest Policy (2006). If well managed, the forest resources of Mauritius

can contribute to environmental rehabilitation, creation of job opportunities, supply of wood and

non-wood products, food security, ecotourism, recreation and national well-being.

Henceforth, management will aim at non-consumptive use of our forests while concurrently

enhancing their vital protective functions, e.g. protection of watersheds, habitats for fauna and flora,

flood control, carbon sequestration, etc. A gradual shift will be maintained away from the traditional

timber exploitation activities to others that are less destructive and more rewarding in the long term,


e.g. ecotourism, provision of leisure and recreation, medicinal plants, fodder, sustainable exploitation

of non-timber products like venison and honey.

5.4 Economic Functions

The forests of Mauritius provide a range of wood and non-wood forest products. Timber, poles,

firewood, honey, deer, grass, fibres, fruits and medicinal plants are common examples. The forest

sector provides direct and indirect employment to some 5,000 people in forest resource management

activities, biodiversity conservation, tree planting to provide soil cover in environmentally fragile

areas, wood production, primary and secondary processing of wood, wildlife capture and export,

deer ranching and eco-tourism. The upland forests of Mauritius play a vital role in soil and water

conservation and the production of rain-fed and irrigated agricultural crops at middle and low

altitudes. The contribution of the sector to the Gross National Product is estimated to be about one

percent. This is a gross under-estimate since the ecological services of forests, now deemed to be of

considerable value, are not considered in National Accounts.

5.5 Social Functions

Rapid industrialization during the past few decades has resulted in higher standards of living and

new aspirations of the people of Mauritius. However, a modern lifestyle also brings with it stress and

pressure on the population. This increases demand for leisure and recreation in natural surroundings.

Ecotourism is on the rise. More and more people are visiting the forests for leisure activities such as

shooting, fishing, jogging, camping, picnicking, collecting wild fruits, watching wildlife and, as a

result, are expecting better facilities and services from the forest sector.

5.6 Policy, Legislation and International Conventions

A National Forest Policy was elaborated in 2006 following consultation among stakeholders from

Government, private sector and civil society, and set out to protect and enhance the country’s natural

environment, biodiversity and national heritage. It flagged serious issues needing attention:

Degradation of native forests by invasive alien species;.

Forest destruction by recurrent cyclones, fire, insect pests and diseases;

Deer ranching.

At the same time, it evoked possibilities for the development of in-land recreation, eco-tourism and

other small forest-based businesses for income generation.

Furthermore, it emphasised the environmental and protective functions of forests in preference to

timber production, and recommended a gradual phasing-out of forest exploitation for timber. It

highlighted the need for:

Conservation and protection of watersheds and other environmentally-sensitive areas;

Increasing tree cover to enhance the environment and the carbon sink capacity of our forests;

Conversion of abandoned sugar-cane lands to forestry in environmentally sensitive areas.

5.7 Main Legislation for the Protection of Forests

The Forests and Reserves Act No. 41 of 1983 (as amended by Act No.1 of 1986 and Act No. 7 of

2003) is the principal legislation governing the administration and management of forest resources.

It, inter-alia, makes provision for the creation of “National Forest” and sets up a Nature Reserves

Board. It provides protection for State forest lands as well as river and mountain reserves, but does

not cover activities undertaken on private-owned forest lands.

Other related legislation include the :

Shooting and Fishing Leases Act (1966);

the Wildlife and National Parks Act No.13 (1993), dealing with the management of wildlife and

National Parks and the conservation of fauna and flora.


The Act, inter-alia, makes provision for the creation of National Parks, reserves and buffer zones

where:

(a) such land is of natural, scenic, scientific, educational, and recreational or other importance

or value to the state; and

(b) the preservation of the land is necessary to properly protect, to permit access to or

management of, or to allow public viewing or enjoyment of an area of such land.

The Environment Protection Act of 1991 (as amended in 2002), which provides for the protection

and management of the environmental assets of Mauritius so that their capacity to sustain the

society and its development remains unimpaired and to foster harmony between quality of life,

environmental protection and sustainable development for the present and future generations.

The Pas Geometriques Act of 1895 (as amended by Act No. 35 of 1989), which declares areas

along the coast known as Pas Geometriques to be public domain and makes provision for the

survey of lands in such kind of land areas, the grant of leases, rights of lessees, and prohibits

dumping on Pas Geometriques.

The Plants Act of 1976 (repealed by The Plant Protection Act No. 10 of 2006) which provides for

the prevention, control and eradication of plant diseases; it regulates export and import of plants;

and it provides the authority to restrict the cultivation of certain plant varieties.

5.8 International Conventions, Agreements and Co-operation

With regard to forestry and related matters, the Government of Mauritius is signatory to various

International Conventions. These include, inter alia:

The African Convention for the Protection of Nature and Natural Resources, 1968;

The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl Habitat

(RAMSAR), 1971;

The Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, 1972;

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES),

1973

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) (1992) and Kyoto

Protocol, 1999;

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), 1992;

The Convention to Combat Drought and Desertification in Africa (UNCCD), 1995;

The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to the Convention on Biological Diversity, 2000;

The United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF); and

SADC Protocol on Forestry, 2002.

5.9 Forest management

All the plantation forests on State lands in Mauritius are now managed according to the principles of

sustainable forest management, which are embodied in the National Forest Policy 2006. This has

helped curb the rate of deforestation to below 0.1% annually after 2005.

However, there is virtually no scientific management on private forests. These forests are mostly

scrublands and degraded native forests which have been severely invaded with alien species, and are

mainly used for extensive deer ranching and ecotourism development.

5.10 Native Forest

Almost all of the remaining State-owned native forests have been legally declared as Nature

Reserves or National Parks and are, as such, legally protected. There are seven inland Nature

Reserves, seven Islets Nature Reserves, two inland National Parks, eight Islets National Park and one

Endemic Garden. No timber exploitation is carried out in these areas and they are managed solely for

the conservation of biodiversity, soil and water conservation and other environmental functions.


Weeding operations and other forest restoration activities are carried out in some of these areas to

control invasive weeds and prevent forest degradation.

5.11 Plantation Forest

The forest plantations consist of species of economic importance such as pine, eucalyptus and

araucaria, and most are leased for deer ranching. This activity, when carefully regulated, offers an

additional protection in terms of fencing and watchmanship. Timber exploitation is effected on state

forest plantations and is restricted to specific areas where logging impact is minimal. About 50% of

forest plantations have been set aside for environmental functions and soil and water conservation

(mostly in water catchment areas and slopes). In line with the National Forest Policy 2006, timber

exploitation is gradually being phased out in Mauritius and the exotic timber yielding species are

gradually being replaced by native species.

5.12 Silviculture

Silviculture aims at the production of higher volume of superior quality timber of economically

valuable species per unit area as well as the restoration of natural forests and creation of new forests.

It covers all management practices, and includes harvesting for timber-yielding species. Three main

types of silvicultural systems are practiced in Mauritius. In the clear-felling system, areas of mature

trees are clear-felled in a single operation (e.g. pine, araucaria) and re-planted. In selection felling,

individual trees or groups of trees are selected for felling. This is practiced where growth is uneven,

with species with long rotation (e.g. mahogany), on steep topography and in water catchment areas.

Alternatively, there is the coppice forest system, whereby trees of coppicing species (e.g.

Eucalyptus) are felled, and new crops are re-generated through stool (stump) coppices.

5.13 The Forestry Service

5.13.1 Staffing

The Forestry Service is responsible for the management of the State Forest Lands in Mauritius. It is

led by the Conservator of Forests, who is assisted by a Deputy Conservator of Forests and two

Assistant Conservators of Forests, three Divisional Forest Officers, 8 Chief Forest Conservation and

Enforcement Officers, 12 Principal Forest Conservation and Enforcement Officers, 37 Senior Forest

Conservation and Enforcement Officers and 53 Forest Conservation and Enforcement Officers.

Approximately 330 General Workers are deployed in various sections of the Forestry Service. In

addition, a Survey Unit is operated by one Surveyor, one Survey Technician, one Technical Design

Officer, one Management Support Officer, one Head Survey Field Worker and eight Survey Field

Workers. About 40 Administrative staff Cadres are attached to support the Service.

5.13.2 Main Activities of the Forestry Service

Enforcement of Forest Laws: Regular patrol over 20,000 hectares of State Forest Lands, River

Reserves and Mountain Reserves, with contraventions (39 in 2014) and eventually prosecution

for offenders; processing about 500 requests annually for development on river reserves; and

handling complaints regarding illegal development. In addition, some 300 requests are attended

annually regarding the issue of Clearance Certificates on River Reserves and Mountain Reserves,

requests for firewood, felling of trees in Government compounds, EIA applications and

Environmental Clearances including National Project Reports.

Production of Plants: production of some 350,000 plants annually in its seven nurseries, of

which some 200,000 are used in-house for reforestation/ afforestation programmes. About

100,000 plants are sold to the public annually, and some 25,000 are issued free to organizations,

youth clubs, schools, etc. under the National Tree Planting Campaign.

Reforestation/Afforestation and Maintenance of Forest plantations: About 25 ha are

reforested/afforested and some 200 ha of forest plantations maintained annually. Tree cover in

water catchment areas and on hill slopes are maintained and increased for soil and water

conservation and to enhance carbon sequestration.

Exploitation of Forest Produce: Timber is exploited for commercial purposes by sixty registered

wood merchants and approximately 787 m3 of timber, 97 m3 of poles, 2702 m3 of firewood and

25 000 units of bamboo were produced locally in 2014, under the control of Forest Officers.


Other non-wood forest produce such as Chinese Guava fruits, Ravenala leaves, etc. are collected

by the public.

Shooting and Fishing/Deer Ranching : About 10,607 ha of State forest lands are leased for

shooting and fishing purposes under the Shooting & Fishing Leases Act of 1966. Deer ranching

has now become an important economic activity, and the production of venison is about 475

tonnes annually (375 tonnes from private forest lands & 100 tonnes from state forest lands).

Creation and Maintenance of Firebreaks in Forest: About 30 km of fire-breaks are

created/maintained annually in fire-prone and sensitive areas (Ile D’Ambre, Ile aux Benitiers and

Signal Mountain).

Conservation of Biological Diversity: Nature Reserves and other State Native forests are

effectively managed for the protection of indigenous flora and fauna. In-situ and ex-situ

conservation of indigenous plants are also effected. Some 50,000 indigenous plants belonging to

150 species are raised annually by the Tree Seed Centre and the Greenhouse Unit. Native plant

gardens and nature corners are created and monitored in schools and on Government premises.

Recreational Forestry: Nature Walks are operated at Monvert in Forest Side, at Powder Mills in

Pamplemousses and at Sophie near Mare aux Vacoas for leisure and recreational activities. The

visitor’s and interpretation centres are used to raise awareness through photo displays with

descriptive texts, Power-Point presentations, and talks.

Education, Awareness and Research work : About 30 schools and 15 community centres are

targeted annually for sensitization and raising awareness about the value of forests and forest

conservation. These are also disseminated through media (radio, TV, newspapers and pamphlets).

The Service collaborates with NGOs, private land owners, university students as well as local and

foreign institutions (universities, etc) for scientific studies related to forest and regular assistance

is provided to university students for their projects.

Protected Area Network Project (PAN): The Forestry Service, together with the National Parks

and Conservation Service, are actively participating in the PAN project for the removal of

invasive alien species in the native forest areas, including Nature Reserves.

5.14 Strategy 2016-2020

5.14.1 Mission and Vision

In view of the ever more important roles of forest areas in the fields of environmental protection,

conservation of biodiversity and mitigation of the impacts of climate change, a new vision and

mission is being proposed to take forestry forward.

Vision: A healthy, green environment meeting the needs and aspirations of present and future

generations for environmental, social and economic benefits derived from trees in and

outside forest areas.

Mission: To enhance our tree cover and manage forests and trees outside of forests with the

participation and on behalf of the people of Mauritius.

5.14.2 Strategic Goals

1. Tree planting programme are implemented to increase tree cover throughout the island.

2. Existing legislation and policies are reviewed to increase tree and forest protection.

3. Environmentally-sensitive areas such as watershed and steep slopes are managed for sustainable

development and protected.

4. Biodiversity and eco-system services are enhanced.

5. Awareness is created among the general public on the importance and value of the trees and

forests.

Towards this mission/goal, the following five objectives have been identified as well as the strategies

necessary to achieve them.


5.14.3 Objective 1: Increased tree cover over the island

Strategies:

1. Launching of a nationwide campaign/programme to plant 160,000 trees, preferentially native

species, annually from 2016-2020. This is best done with active participation of individuals,

institutions and civil society organisations in tree planting and protection activities and coupled

with awareness campaign on the importance of forests and trees in improving the natural

environment for healthy living.

2. In view of the severe, commercial losses caused to fruit production by bats, consideration will be

given to scattered fruit tree plantings in forest areas. At bearing stage, these trees could provide

alternative targets for the bat population and divert them away from commercial orchards and

backyard fruit trees. The operational details, sites and choice of fruit species must however be

determined. Such a scheme is necessarily a medium to long-term strategy.

3. Selecting appropriate species and propagating materials corresponding to plantation sites to avoid

loss of biodiversity through mixing of populations.

4. Developing innovative, financial schemes to increase tree cover and manage tree plantations.

Owners of degraded forest lands and the general public to be provided with incentives to plant

trees, such as free or subsidised seedlings, training on maintenance and management of new

plantings, and extending the tree planting programmes to privately-owned forest lands. Such

schemes could be extended to abandoned, fallow plots of land which would otherwise turn into

wastelands. Some form of carbon trading scheme can eventually be devised to assist the process.

5. Increasing the capacity of forest nurseries and implementing more efficient seedling production

technologies to provide for increased plantings.

5.14.4 Objective 2: Review of the existing laws, legislation and policies to increase tree and forest

protection.

Strategies:

1. Review and amend the Forests and Reserves Act 41 of 1983 (amended by Act No.1 and Act No.

7 of 2008) to include access and control of felling of trees and removal of forest produce on

private forest land; to revise the composition and meeting schedules of the Nature Reserves

Board; to increase the penalties for offences under the Act including illegal felling of trees,

littering and dumping on Reserves and State forest land; and to arrange for more biodiversity-rich

areas to be proclaimed as Nature Reserves.

2. Consultations to be initiated with relevant stakeholders to review the Shooting and Fishing Lease

Act of 1966.

3. Review of the National Forest Policy (2006) and preparation of the National Forest Action Plan.

While it provides for the conservation, protection and development of forests through sustainable

forest management, with emphasis on the environmental functions of forests rather than their

exploitation for timber and produce, it does not provide protection of private forest lands except

for the mountain and river reserves. Furthermore, the growing impact and mitigation measures of

climate change and green economy issues like the Clean Development Mechanism are not

covered by the current policy. The policy should now be re-formulated to highlight awareness and

information on all aspects of forestry so as to enhance understanding and appreciation of our

forests including their environmental and social value. FAO has pledged technical assistance for

this undertaking.

4. Formulating the National Forest Action Programme 2016-2025, with technical support of FAO,

to ensure that private forests are managed and maintained in an ecologically sustainable manner

as well as to promote and support adaptive forest management to combat natural disasters and

climate change. Forests thus managed will provide the basis for nature conservation and

biological diversity as well as for economic development and employment opportunities in a wide

range of sectors, including tourism and recreation, water supply, agro-forestry, deer ranching and

food security amongst others.


5. Enactment of the Native Terrestrial Biodiversity and National Parks Act.

To this end, a draft Bill has already been reviewed by the State Law Office and will now have to

be passed through Parliament. The main objective is to strengthen the protection, conservation

and management of native, terrestrial biodiversity in Mauritius, and thereby giving effect to the

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and

other biodiversity related conventions to which Mauritius is party. The act will also provide for

the establishment, control and management of National Parks and Special Reserves and related

matters.

6. Increase the number of trees to be replanted for every tree felled on State Land, River Reserves,

Mountain Reserves, Road reserves, Pas Geometriques, public beaches and public compounds.

In line with a Cabinet decision of 17 February 2012, at least two trees should be replanted for

every tree felled on any State Land. It is now proposed to step up to thrice the number of trees

felled.

5.14.5 Objective 3: The sustainable development, management and protection of environmentally-

sensitive areas such as watersheds and steep slopes.

Strategies:

1. Mapping of environmentally sensitive areas

2. Surveying the main water catchment areas for legal protection; control of infrastructural and

agricultural development; and the proclamation of the catchment areas around the main

reservoirs as National Forest.

3. Arranging for public-private partnership or incentives for proper watershed management

practices on private lands, and possible acquisition (with equitable compensation) of private

forests in critical areas considered of national importance;

4. Implementing the re-forestation and re-stocking of steep slopes, and taking measures to

minimise soil erosion and sedimentation in reservoirs.

5. Developing and implementing forest rehabilitation models for biodiversity conservation in

watershed areas and river reserves to enhance landscape and improve water conservation.

6. Promoting more efficient use of land resources in water catchments for protection of recharge

zones and water resources from pollution and depletion. Prepare and implement a public

awareness and extension programmes to sensitise people on the need for watershed protection.

5.14.6 Objective 4: Enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Strategies:

1. Increasing the protection of biodiversity-rich areas through additional legal provisions. 2. Increasing the quality of native forests and enhancing wildlife habitats

3. Increasing the native tree cover.

4. Discouraging the production, sale and use of known invasive alien species.

5. Eradication / control of invasive alien species in biodiversity-rich areas.

6. Prohibition of the importation of known alien invasive species.

To that end, the following actions will be undertaken:

a comprehensive 5-year plan will be prepared to integrate conservation activities such as

biodiversity assessments and opportunities for mitigation, in partnership with stakeholders.

Indicators will be developed for monitoring and improvement;

priority areas for conservation and rehabilitation will be identified;

protection of native species and attenuation of invasive species through amendments to the law

and monitoring protocols; developing incentives for private land-owners to protect and restore

pristine forests; and research on methods to eradicate/control invasive alien species and to

select/restore native species;


all endangered species will be secured in ex-situ collections and in-situ managed areas;

the capacity of forest nurseries to produce native species will be stepped up;

cooperation with research institutions and NGOs will be initiated for, inter alia, phenological

studies of endangered plant species;.

the use of native species will be encouraged in landscaping projects;

exotic forest plantations will be gradually replaced by native species;

capacity for forest restoration will be built through training in conservation methods and

ecosystem restoration; and

a strategy for eco-tourism and eco-system services will be developed with external technical

assistance.

5.14.7 Objective 5: Awareness on importance of trees and forests

Strategies:

1. Developing strong partnerships with key stakeholders for better co-ordination with government

agencies, private sector and civil society.

2. Generation and distribution of informative materials on importance of forests and trees for

dissemination through media (radio, newspaper, TV and internet) and local communities.

3. Organisation of quiz, essay competition and painting competition on the importance of trees,

deforestation, climate change and related themes.

4. Guided tours to the public by forest officers at the Nature Walks.

5. Undertaking Knowledge-Attitude-Perception surveys to fine-tune messages and media

campaigns.

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6. BIODIVERSITY

6.1 Overview

Mauritius has a rich biodiversity but one of the most threatened floras in the world, with its 691

species of which 273 are single island endemics and another 150 are Mascarene endemics. As

regards fauna, the only native mammals are bats (fruit bats and tomb bats) and to-date nine endemic

species of land bird and eleven endemic reptile species exist on the island. Of the invertebrate fauna,

only butterflies and land snails have been studied.

The country has equally rich coastal zone of wetlands and mangroves, lagoon corals and fringing

coral reefs. Freshwater biodiversity is contained within some 90 rivers and streams, several man-

made reservoirs, natural lakes and marshy areas; it is low in diversity and endemism; there are 18

species of fish of which thirteen are native. Over the years, the mangrove cover has significantly

decreased to reach around 25 ha.

It has a diverse marine environment with its five reef types and so far 159 species of scleractinian

corals have been recorded. Of the 340 species of fish identified, 42 are of economic importance.

Seven species of shrimps have also been identified. Other invertebrates include octopus, mussels,

oysters, barnacles and clams. Over 160 genera of marine algal have so far been identified in coastal

waters. Seventeen marine mammals have been recorded in Mauritian waters mostly during the

migration to Antarctica for calving, and some dolphins are resident in local waters. A diagnostic

analysis in 2012 reported only 40 % of live coral cover exists in the lagoon and annual total fish

catch had declined from 19,690 tonnes in 1993 to 5,270 tonnes in 2011. To conserve marine

biodiversity, 6 Fishing Reserves and 2 Marine Parks have thus been established so far in Mauritius.

Among the islets, the marine eco-system around St Brandon is still virtually intact with abundant

large reef fish, corals and sea creatures. It is an important seabird site with eight species breeding,

but seabird numbers appear to be declining on account of poaching and introduced rats.

Wetlands are also an integral component of biodiversity and provide many ecosystem services such

as habitat for a wide array of flora and fauna species, water storage and flood control, sediment and

nutrient retention, carbon sink, shoreline stabilization and aesthetic and educational purposes. They

are however subject to important pressures, especially for back-filling to make way for development

projects. As environmentally-sensitive areas, wetlands are closely monitored. Mauritius has three

Wetlands of International Importance, namely the Pointe d'Esny Wetland, Blue Bay Marine Park and

the Rivulet Terre Rouge Estuary Bird Sanctuary. At the latter site, rare species are protected and

conserved. The most common migratory birds are the common sandpiper, tern and whimbrel.

Biodiversity is under threat in Mauritius and its offshore islets due to loss of biodiversity and

loss/degradation of habitats as a result of deforestation/land degradation and siltation of lagoons,

filling of marshy areas and wetlands, sand and coral mining, over-exploitation of resources, and

pressure for development amongst others. The key drivers identified are land clearing for

development and other purposes (mainly in privately owned land), invasive alien species, habitat

modification for deer ranching, pollution from land-based sources and activities and adverse impacts

of climate change.

6.2 The National Parks and Conservation Service (NPCS)

The NPCS was officially established in 1994 to be responsible for all issues related to the

conservation of terrestrial flora and fauna in Mauritius and for the provision of related advice. Its

vision is that people in Mauritius enjoy a healthy environment and an enhanced quality of life

through the effective conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in line with national and

international commitments but nonetheless respectful of local values. Its key mission is to ensure a

sustainable management and restoration of native terrestrial Mauritian fauna and flora so as to retain

its genetic biodiversity for the future generations.

It is governed by the Wildlife and National Parks Act (1993), and NPCS has upgraded the legislative

framework to provide an overall protection to all biodiversity and to be in line with International

Conventions especially CITES and CBD (two major biodiversity related conventions). The new

Native Terrestrial Biodiversity and National Parks Act (2015) has been proclaimed and is in force as

from 1 November 2015.


6.3 International Conventions

The National Parks and Conservation Service is the focal point for several Conventions and

Agreements related to biodiversity. Some of these Conventions are:

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora

(CITES),ratified on 27 Jan 1975. The convention deals with all matters related to international

trade of endangered species of flora and fauna.

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) ratified in June 1992. This convention deals with

the protection and sustainable use of all biological resources.

Ramsar Convention on wetlands ratified on 30th January 2001

African Eurasian Waterbird Agreement (AEWA),entered into force on 1st November 1999 and

Convention on Migratory Species of Animals (CMS) ratified on1st June 2008

6.4 NPCS action

NPCS recent action plans have centred on in-situ conservation and ecosystem approaches. NPCS

currently manages:

10 legally proclaimed protected areas on the mainland - two National Parks, seven Nature

Reserves and one bird sanctuary- covering a total area of 7,292 ha.

8 Islets National Park, 7 Nature Reserves and one Ancient Monument - covering a total area of

735 ha.

The Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve is leased for conservation management purposes to the

Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF).

6.5 The Vallée d’Osterlog Endemic Garden

This Garden forms part of the 2% remnant native and endemic forest that remains in Mauritius. Its

management is governed by the Vallée D'Osterlog Endemic Garden Foundation Act of 2007. Its

vision is to be the reference Endemic Garden of Mauritius with mission to contribute to biodiversity

conservation at global level and to knowledge dissemination and research on the endemic flora and

fauna of Mauritius.

Future action for Mauritius will continue on the same working principles. Activities will continue to

be based on the development of representative and viable protected area networks, the control of

invasive alien species, the management of key components of biodiversity, the enhanced

identification (particularly of freshwater ecosystems) and monitoring of biodiversity and

mechanisms to enable sustainable use through ecotourism development and sound management of

natural resources. Emphasis is also placed on the sound application of modern biotechnology

through the balanced implementation of the provisions of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety.

NPCS will continue to empower stakeholder partnerships and ensure the mainstreaming of the

conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.

6.6 Invasive Alien Species

While the NPCS continues its conservation activities and maintains these sites, there are other

critical activities related to protection from loss and degradation. Invasive alien species (IAS) have

been singled out as a major cause of bio-diversity loss. These are introduced plants, animals and

micro-organisms whose establishment and spread threaten ecosystems, habitats or species (including

humans). IAS thus represent a major threat to the economy, environment and society. Over the years,

a variety of actions have been undertaken to address this threat but in spite of some significant

successes, the problems posed by IAS appear to be increasing.

For a comprehensive and coordinated approach to addressing IAS issues, a National Invasive Alien

Species Committee (NIASC) was established to develop a National Invasive Alien Species Strategy

as a first step to the management the IAS threat with the involvement of non-governmental and civil

society organisations, the private sector and the general public. The strategy has been outlined in the

a project document entitled ‘National Invasive Alien Species Strategy and Action Plan’ (NIASSAP)


for the Republic of Mauritius produced in 2010 to cover up to 2020. There is need to update this

NIASSAP and to look for funds for its implementation.

6.7 Strategy for management of invasive species

The proposed strategy consists of five Management Elements and five cross-cutting issues.

The Management Elements, with their accompanying goal or goals listed hereunder in order of

priority are based on the maxim that “prevention is better than cure”, in line with CBD Guiding

Principle 2.1

1. Prevention - to minimise the number of unintended and intended IAS introductions to the

Republic of Mauritius;

2. Early Detection and Rapid Response - to minimise the number of IAS that go on to have

harmful consequences once they are introduced to the Republic of Mauritius;

3. Eradication - an agreed framework for eradication priorities in place, eradications undertaken

as necessary and results disseminated;

4. Control and Management - to contain the distribution and abundance of IAS in the Republic

of Mauritius to a long-term acceptable level; and

5. Restoration - to undertake ecosystem restoration where necessary in the Republic of

Mauritius to achieve long-term ecosystem goals.

The Cross-Cutting Elements, again listed with their goal or goals are:

6. Legal, policy and Institutional Frameworks - to have a coordinated policy and management

framework that minimises the risk of IAS to the economy, environment and society of the

Republic of Mauritius;

7. Capacity Building and Education - to make available appropriately skilled personnel from

the Republic of Mauritius or elsewhere to implement all aspects of IAS management in the

country;

8. Information Management and Research - (i) To have a clear understanding of the

economic, environmental and social impacts of IAS that have become established in the

Republic of Mauritius; (ii) to have ready access to critical information that will support IAS

management programmes and (iii) to provide a strong scientific basis for decision-making and

resource allocation;

9. Public Awareness and Engagement - The general public, decision-makers, scientists and

other stakeholders in the Republic of Mauritius should have a high level of awareness of IAS

risks and the benefits of IAS prevention and management for the economy, environment and

society; and

10. International Cooperation – (i) The Republic of Mauritius to have access to the necessary

information, technical support and other resources it needs to effectively meet its national and

international obligations; (ii) Mauritian IAS experiences and lessons learned are effectively

disseminated to help IAS initiatives regionally and internationally; and (iii) the Republic of

Mauritius is not a source of IAS for other countries.

The report has also developed the detailed actions to implement the strategy. Sufficient human,

technical and financial resources must be deployed for its sustainable implementation.

6.8 Updating the current NBSAP

A project is currently under way to assist Mauritius integrate its obligations under the CBD into its

national development and sectoral planning frameworks. It is expected to produce measurable targets

for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use. The emphasis will be on developing biodiversity

targets in response to the Aichi Targets and to be in line with CBD strategic plan (2011-2020);

updating the NBSAP and integrating new aspects such as mainstreaming and anchoring the

implementation of the plan in development frameworks, valuing ecosystem services and promoting

ecosystem-based adaptation and resilience; and strengthening resource mobilisation, CBD reporting

and exchange mechanisms.


These will be included in a revised National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) which

should guide NPCS activities to 2020.

6.9 Agro-biodiversity

Agro-biodiversity is more closely linked to production in the non-sugar sector and more specifically

to food security (i.e. vegetables, fruits, medicinal plants and livestock). But over the years,

agriculture has lost plant genetic resources as emphasis was placed on a limited number of high-

yielding varieties and breeds, often imported hybrids; and stations which harboured valuable species

and varieties were released for development. Such practices narrow the genetic base and may pose

serious threat to long-term food security. Furthermore, limited land and capacity for research,

incomplete inventories, weak communication and collaboration between institutions, and the risk of

introduced Living Modified Organisms are further complications.

6.9.1 Plant Genetic Resources Unit

Therefore since 1995 the Plant Genetic Resources Unit of the Agricultural Services started the

collection of local germplasm for food and agriculture. It runs one seed-bank at Curepipe as well as a

field gene bank at Nouvelle Découverte where vegetatively-propagated accessions are conserved.

The Endemic or Native Plants corner at Sir Seewoosagur Botanical Garden at Pamplemousses,

remains under the responsibility of the PGRU. Other Agricultural Centres provide facilities for the

regeneration and multiplication exercises. To optimise the existing facilities, the PGR unit has

extended its mandate to other flora of national importance such as crop wild relatives.

Actually, there are 471 accessions in the gene bank consisting of the following genera: Amaranthus,

Allium, Brassica, Cucurbita, Lycopersicon, Solanum and Vigna. Wild relatives of pigeon pea,

cucumber, potato, eggplant and tomato are kept as well as a rare pea and three endemic coffee

species. Local litchi and pineapple varieties are included. Also, FAREI holds a limited collection for

onion, taro and anthurium. For potato, a germplasm comprising of 120 imported clones and another

20 locally developed clones are maintained. About 69 species of medicinal plants and ornamentals

have been identified, many of them are native and about 10 % are endemics.

Given the heterogeneous agro-ecological conditions that prevail in Mauritius, genetic and species

diversity have a special significance for the maintenance and enhancement of productivity in

agricultural crops, all the more so under climatic change. Such diversity provides sources of natural

resistance to diseases, pests, drought and other stresses, and contribute to stability and food security

for farmers. In view of its value to sustainable development, the conservation, characterisation and

use of plant genetic resources is crucial. Safeguard for traditional knowledge is covered in the CBD

Treaty of PGRFA. Mauritius ratified the Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the

Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits and is active in regional initiatives.

The PGR Unit will maintain its technical activities, namely:

Management of the field Gene Bank and field conservation of germplasm;

Collection of accessions;

Monitoring and maintenance of accessions in the Seed Gene bank.

Regeneration, multiplication and characterisation of accessions; and

Rescue of endangered species.

To strengthen the operation of the Unit, it is proposed to:

set up a National Plant Genetic Resources Committee to coordinate the Plant Genetic

Resources for Food and Agriculture (PGRFA) activities and PGRFA related issues;

drafting of a PGRFA Bill, and eventual enactment;

running a pre-breeding exercise,

characterisation and cataloguing of the existing germplasm; and

promoting the use of under-utilised local germplasm.


6.9.2 Animal Genetic Resources

Livestock diversity is essential to food and livelihood security providing meat, milk, eggs, manure,

leather and a range of other products and services. They contribute to the ecosystems in which they

live, providing services such as seed dispersal and nutrient cycling. In order to address the increasing

demand for livestock products there has been significant import of exotic genetics and indiscriminate

cross-breeding which has led to increasing erosion of animal genetic resources. The Creole cattle

population which was around 32,300 in the 70's (representing 70% of the total cattle population )

declined to around 100 heads in 2015, representing less than 2% of the total herd. Thus, according to

the classification of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) the Creole cattle falls

under the category “critically endangered species”. Other species that require conservation actions

are the mongoose pig, Rodriguan chicken and Rodriguaise sheep. The Rusa deer (Cervus timorensis

russa) has established itself as a full-fledged economic activity and as an integral part of the

livestock sector. With the gradual decline of the local cattle population, venison has become the

main source of red meat. Its population increased from 45,000 in 1988 to reach 65,000 in 2014.

Within the internationally agreed framework, member states are committed to implement the FAO

Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources which aims at promoting the sustainable use,

development and conservation of AnGR. In this respect FAREI has set up a nucleus for conservation

and utilisation of Creole cattle and local goats at Curepipe Livestock Research Station. They have

been characterised phenotypically and are being monitored for productive and reproductive

performance. Under the conservation of farm animal genetic resources, a new nucleus of Creole

cattle has also been set up at Richelieu Open Prison farm and for local goats at FAREI’s Belle Mare

Centre. A total of 68 Creole cattle and 52 local goats are being kept in those herds.

Major constraints regarding priority actions are linked to the low contribution of livestock in the

economy and the lack of funding for implementing programmes. There is no specific

programme/projects with financing for animal genetic resources. Monitoring of existing activities is

embedded in Research Programmes of the FAREI. Lack of resources (human, financial and

infrastructural) limits further action.

The policies or legislation that exist do not discriminate between species or breeds nationally or in

particular production systems or imported animals. A clear policy is therefore necessary.

Furthermore, Government has taken steps to enable farmers to access good breeds of cattle, goats,

sheep and pigs. However, this genetic potential needs to be maintained by a functioning and efficient

artificial insemination service for all three species of livestock. This service is presently available

mainly for cattle and to a lesser extent for pigs. In the long-run, continued mass importation of

foreign breeds is not economical.

Priority actions will therefore involve :

i. Defining a national breeding policy with clearly defined breeding objectives and

establishment of breeding programmes at national level;

ii. Developing a framework for in-situ conservation at farmer’s level;

iii. A systematic genetic improvement program, to be developed for each species;

iv. Regular importation of bulls, bucks and boars;

v. Developing corresponding AI services.

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7. CROSS-CUTTING ISSUES

As well as the specific subject area issues, there are also a range of wider, cross-cutting concerns that

must be addressed. Gender and youth, the environment and climate change are among these.

7.1 Climate Change

The climate of Mauritius is complex, showing wide variations across the country and with a variety

of micro-climates. Meteorological observations have confirmed a change in climate parameters.

Between 1950 and 2008, the average temperature has risen by 0.74 C and annual precipitation has

decreased by 8%. Climate variability and extreme climatic events such as flash floods are also on the

rise.

Agriculture is highly vulnerable to climate extremes and climate variability, which give rise to

disasters and results in lower agricultural productivity, crop loss or crop failure. Changes in

temperature and rainfall associated with climate change are expected to shift crop production ranges

and calendar; change the incidence and severity of pests, diseases and weeds; modify crop

development patterns; worsen the water stress; increase stress on livestock; and modify the set of

feasible crops. All of these possible effects will adversely affect production, prices, incomes and

ultimately the livelihoods and lives of the farming community. The impact and economic cost of

such events can be significant on national food production and food security. One can expect our

food insecurity to increase.

On the other hand, agriculture also holds significant potential to help resolve the problem. It is

therefore essential and urgent to implement adaptation and mitigation strategies for climate change.

Some priority issues are mentioned below covering a shift in orientation of institutions, moving to

climate–smart agriculture, and mitigation. Some key technical areas in need of strengthening are

discussed in depth.

7.1.1 Adaptation to Climate Change

According to the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global warming is a reality and that

the phenomenon will continue over the next century. The Mauritius Meteorological Services has

already established that the general trend is towards a rise in temperature and a decrease in the

amount of precipitation. As a SIDS, Mauritius is highly vulnerable to climate change.

Any increase in temperature, change in amount and pattern of precipitation, extreme climatic events

and sea level rise will have a profound effect on local agriculture as climate is the most significant

factor determining plant growth and productivity. The possible impacts would include heat stress in

plants, soil moisture stress, higher pest and disease incidence, shift in dominant pests and diseases,

shift in vegetation zones, and lower productivity in the livestock sector. As a result, adaptation and

mitigation will be key strategies for the Mauritian agriculture.

The following measures are being proposed as part of an adaptation strategy:

i. Screening of crop varieties suitable for changing climatic conditions;

ii. Developing protected culture systems;

iii. Adopting rain-water harvest systems and using water-saving technologies for irrigation;

iv. Promoting Integrated Pest and Disease Management;

v. Optimising the use of chemical fertilisers;

vi. Introducing and promoting soil conservation methods;

vii. Promoting mixed cropping and agro-ecological farming; and

viii. Implementing an agricultural insurance scheme.

Agriculture however, is itself responsible for an estimated one third of climate change, mainly

through deforestation, the use of fossil fuel based fertilisers and the burning of biomass. Most of the

methane in the atmosphere comes from domestic ruminants, forest fires, wetland rice cultivation and


waste products while conventional tillage and fertiliser use account for the majority of nitrous oxides

emissions.

Agriculture offers good potential for reducing emissions of greenhouse gas (GHG), namely through:

i. Recycling and composting crop residues and livestock wastes;

ii. Carbon sequestration in biomass and soil organic matter; and

iii. Adopting Good Agricultural Practices, including natural farming systems and agro-forestry;

iv. Promoting the use of solar panels, wind turbines and production of biomass to generate

renewable energy;

v. Minimal use of agrochemicals (fertilisers and pesticides) in crop production.

7.1.3 Emission of Green House Gases and International Obligations

The Republic of Mauritius is a Party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate

Change (UNFCCC) and is required, in accordance with Article 12 of the Convention, to report on

measures undertaken at national level to implement relevant international obligations and decisions

pertaining to climate change. In this context, it has to report at regular intervals on gases emission in

order for UNFCCC to assess compliance.

In this endeavor, the following activities will be pursued:

i. Conduct of a comprehensive GHG Inventory in the agricultural sector;

ii. Supporting the National Focal Point on Climate Change in the preparation of the:

National Inventory Reports,

Third National Communication,

Biennial Update Report,

Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC),

2050 pathways calculator for evaluating climate change strategies.

iii. Setting up a Climate Change Working Group at FAREI to coordinate climate change issues

among institutions and key stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

iv. Following up on related issues, namely:

Capacity building to monitor climate change and design indicators for agriculture;

Promotion of practices for the adaptation and mitigation of agricultural systems;

Practices to increase the resilience of agricultural systems;

Climate and disaster risk management in agriculture; and

Data and information collection, early warning and dissemination.

7.1.4 Mainstreaming Climate Change in Research and Extension

To that effect, research institutions covering crops, livestock, forestry and natural resources

management will have to adapt their portfolio and their priorities to reflect this urgency, but must re-

think about policies and institutional arrangements that govern agricultural production, value chains

and natural resource management. The approach to research should involve more inter-disciplinary

teams and engage in collaborative research and experimentation with stakeholders. FAREI has

adopted this approach for some time already but must now re-orient and extend their know-how to

cover the wider dimensions of Climate Change adaptation. Work programmes and projects must

recognise and reflect the need for adaptation. Communication must be stepped up to create

awareness of Climate Change and related issues for farmers, but must now go beyond mere transfer

of knowledge into facilitation and intermediation to advance innovative ideas.


Given the multi-disciplinary nature of CC and the multiple actors within agriculture, it has become

necessary to set up a Climate Change Working Group under the responsibility of FAREI to share

information, coordinate for concerted actions and to interface with other bodies and international

agencies whenever required. Its first tasks would be to undertake a detailed identification of climate

impacts, vulnerabilities and coping measures and to improve climate information and forecasts.

7.1.5 Promotion and development of climate-smart agriculture practices (crop and livestock)

Climate Smart Agriculture is an approach to developing the technical, policy and investment

conditions so as to achieve sustainable agricultural development for food security under climate

change. This calls for the comprehensive integration of the climate change effects into agricultural

planning, investment and programmes. Small-scale composting has no doubt been promoted, but

climate change is yet to be properly mainstreamed throughout the agriculture sector. Basically, there

is not enough awareness, policy or financial strategy to promote climate smart agriculture; the

human and infrastructural capacity for R&D is limited, and coordination amongst stakeholders and

institutions is weak.

To address climate smart agriculture (crop and livestock), it is proposed to :

Disseminate information, improve climate change awareness and highlight the potential of

agriculture to capture and sequester carbon and reduce GHG emissions to offset the effects of

CC.

Develop sustainable and natural farming practices for crop and livestock production, such as

composting at farm scale; shift from mineral fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides into

biologically active plant protectors and control agents; use of minimum-tillage, crop rotation and

cover crops.

Promote soil and water conservation techniques (rainwater harvesting, micro-irrigation, waste

water recycling, crop and animal waste management)

Develop sustainable forest management (forest cover, sustainable use, re-afforestation, agro-

forestry, forest protection, biodiversity);

Strengthen and re-orient R&D: examples include the identification of cultivars and animal

breeds resistant to climate variability, agriculture conservation techniques, integrated nutrient

management, animal housing, protection of agro biodiversity);

Training and capacity building on climate change and climate smart agriculture at all levels

(policy, technical, financial, monitoring) with emphasis on knowledge sharing, facilitation and

coordination;

Design incentive schemes for farmers to adopt sustainable farming practices;

Developing standards and a certification system for an ecological food label;

Inventory of coping strategies for farmer information, and setting up of support schemes for

farmers to cope with climate related disasters;

Development and promotion of protected culture (sheltered farming);

Strengthening the pest and disease alert system for the benefit of farmers; and

Monitoring of climate change and its impacts, and developing appropriate adaptation strategies

in collaboration with agencies responsible for the theme of CC.

In addition, options will be explored for promoting agro-forestry, reforestation and afforestation

projects for carbon credit markets, especially the voluntary private markets, which are currently the

most active, and develop appropriate methodologies for designing and marketing such projects.

External expertise will be necessary in this case.

7.1.6 Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Integrated pest management aims to control insects, plant pathogens and weeds. It emphasizes on

use of natural pest control techniques thereby minimizing the risks to human health and the

environment. As climate change is expected to facilitate the emergence or resurgence of invasive


pests and plant disease vectors, the integrated pest management strategy will help to keep pace with

rapid and dynamic changes in pest diversity and population. IPM has been successfully implemented

on a pilot scale for food crops, and various environment-friendly technologies have been tested and

used.

But the up-scaling and adoption of the IPM techniques has been slow and limited at national level.

This is largely due to insufficient infrastructure to raise biological control agents and test

environment-friendly alternatives such as botanical pesticides; limited range of bio-pesticides and

their high cost. Similarly, area-wide application of IPM have proved specially complex to arrange.

More importantly, there is no policy and regulation framework to promote IPM and farmers do not

have market incentives to adopt IPM. Grading and labelling of fresh produce are not practiced, and

public information and awareness are limited.

Accordingly, it will be necessary to:

Develop an integrated strategy and policy to foster adoption of IPM practices

Strength institutional capacities( and human resources, infrastructure and equipment) in R&D on

IPM technologies, surveillance and early detection of pests and diseases.

Review policy and regulation framework to facilitate the introduction of IPM technology and

regulate the use and disposal of pesticides

Increase information and awareness on alternative to pesticides for farmers and food safety for

the general public

7.1.7 Fertilisation using an Integrated Plant Nutrient System.

Local food crop producers are heavy users of artificial, chemical fertilisers. These often have

negative impacts, leaching into ground-water reserves and run-off to pollute the lagoon. Lately, with

production and availability of composts, interest has been revived for natural fertilizers. A more

rational use of fertilizers should therefore be promoted, focussing on both crop yields and satisfying

plant nutrient requirements but blending both organic and chemical fertilisers. While there is still

scope for chemical fertilisers, appropriate dosages should be emphasized in farmer programmes.

Farmers should also be educated about the negative effects excessive applications to the

environment, and encouraged to switch to biological farming.

Accordingly, it will be necessary to:

Strength institutional capacities( and human resources, infrastructure and equipment) in

R&D on IPNS packages, in-field soil testing, nutrient balance and soil amendment;

Increase information and awareness of farmers and the general public on the merits of IPNS.

7.1.8 Promotion of efficient irrigation techniques

Efficient irrigation techniques is an appropriate climate change adaptation option for farmers to save

water, increase or sustain farmers’ income and enhance food security. The Irrigation Authority (IA)

provides irrigation facilities over 500 ha of lands to produce some 15,000 tonnes of

vegetables/onions annually. However, the irrigation network is limited as a result of the high initial

investment costs for micro-irrigation technologies. The strategy is targeting to:

cover all small-scale food crop growers in drought-prone regions, after the demonstration

and promotion of efficient irrigation techniques;

improve the efficient use of existing irrigation systems using mulching, drought-tolerant or

resistant varieties rain-water harvesting, storage and recycling.

conversion of irrigation systems for sugarcane (high volume – low frequency) to fit

requirements of food crops (low volume- high frequency)

An action plan has been developed as follows:

Survey of drought prone areas and feasibility studies for irrigation project

Cost and benefit analysis and feasibility study for irrigation on different farm size and crops


Investment in water infrastructure to support irrigation projects for food crops

Developing a policy framework for productive use of water in agricultural sector

Capacity building for researchers, extension agents, farmers and entrepreneurs involved in

design, installation and management of irrigation.

7.1.9 Mitigation

Emission of GHG are made up of Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Methane (CH4) and Nitrous Oxide (N2O)

and arise from manure and composts used in agricultural soils; field burning of agricultural residues,

enteric fermentation in ruminants, and manure management. In 2006, agriculture contributed 4.2%

of total national emissions, emanating largely from agricultural soils (59.6%) and the livestock sector

(40.4%). Synthetic nitrogen fertilisers are widely used and contribute to N2O emissions.

In 2010, there were signs of a decline arising mainly from reduction in land area under agriculture

and deliberate actions, namely:

the promotion of Integrated Plant Nutrient System whereby soil fertility is managed to improve

and maintain agricultural productivity in a sustainable manner, often using chemical fertilizers in

a balanced way. This process has been facilitated by the large-scale production of compost and

incentive schemes to encourage its adoption. This approach is commendable, and can be further

enhanced by integrating other measures such as :

o Prevention of land degradation and conservation of soil and plant nutrients

o Composting and recycling of crop residues

o Inclusion of legume cover crops on fallow land

o Minimum and zero-tillage where possible.

o Usage of inoculant on legume crops.

Carbon Sequestration, whereby soil serves as a carbon sink. Agriculture is capable of

sequestrating large amounts of carbon in terms of biomass produced and as soil organic matter in

the soil. Support must be continued for IPNS, bio-farming, natural farming practices, and farm

and household composting so as to accelerate the build-up of soil organic matter , reduce the

need for chemical fertilisers, and thereby sequestering carbon and reducing N2O emissions.

Besides, the tree planting programme under Forestry must be accelerated to make up for change

in land use (mainly for infrastructure, agriculture and residential purposes) and ensure a cleaner,

greener and safer environment.

Improved livestock waste management to reduce emissions from animal waste products.

Possibilities include composting of solid wastes, covered storage and pasture grazing. Emissions

can also be mitigated by production of biogas. Given the high investment costs of bio-digesters,

consideration should be given to low-cost alternatives which are more likely to be adopted by

small livestock breeders.

Other possibilities include production of Bio-fuels/ biomass crops such as Arundo donax for

Renewable Energy in addition to that of sugarcane; optimising ruminant feeding regimes to

minimise CH4 from enteric fermentation and maximise output per unit of GHG.

However, the greatest reductions will arise from integration of good agricultural practices, a

minimum of high-intensity inputs and maximising soil carbon. Overall, it is expected that agriculture

will contribute significantly in coming years. The scale of bio-farming envisaged by Government

will also contribute but will require that standards and certification schemes be first put in place, and

awareness raised among consumers.

7.2 Agricultural Land Management

7.2.1 Current situation

Presently, significant proportion of the island of Mauritius to the tune of over 70% is under

agriculture and forest lands. In recent years, significant land areas have been moved out of

agriculture to make way for infrastructure and residential development. The area of cultivable land,


water courses and biomass sources are under tremendous pressure to meet highly competing and at

times conflicting demands for development.

Besides, a large area formerly under sugarcane are now abandoned, and represents a waste of

valuable resources as well as missed potential for novel initiatives.

A major concern that will need to be addressed is the conservation of fertile agricultural land, forests

and other green landscapes. As these areas are instruments in the adaptation and mitigation of the

impacts of climate change, and will help the nation meet its related international commitments, it is

imperative that a rational approach be adopted to curb their diversion to other land uses. This is

especially important for those problem areas that may require alternative land use and management.

To that effect, a well organised Land Management Information System (or Land Bank) is badly

required to reflect the status of land use among the different economic activities and particularly for

specific agricultural sub-sectors. At another level, maintenance of green landscapes should be given

due attention. Natural places will be essential both for the social well-being of the population and for

development of green tourism. The effective use of Remote Sensing, Geographic Information

System, and global positioning techniques can provide the basic tools for such a land management

information system and ensure constant monitoring of land use, and eventually helping in the

sustainable management of land and natural resources.

With scarcity of fertile agricultural land resources in Mauritius, it is essential to have continuous

monitoring of the extent and type of both state and private lands available in each region, their

current land use pattern, and any change in land use. Much of these lands are leased State Lands, but

the Land Use Division of Agricultural Services lacks the resources to enforce the conditions of the

lease.

Due to high pressure for efficient land use, certain zones may be identified and dedicated for

particular activities such as livestock farming or organic food production. This will help bring down

the cost of infrastructure and utilities when shared among operators (e.g. electricity and water

networks. In the case of livestock projects, clusters can be sited in suitable locations away from

residential zones and thereby avoid environmental problems that normally arise in the localisation of

these projects with proper waste management. Similarly for organic or bio-farming, such isolation

may be necessary for the producers to qualify for certification; restrictions may then be imposed on

producers to follow common guidelines (cahier de charges) in keeping with their objectives.

In regard to the above, it is proposed to:

(i) ensure that land conversion is done in a rational way in line with the National Physical

Development Plan;

(ii) implement a land management information system;

(iii) strengthen the Land Use Division with a Land Squad for the effective enforcement of the

conditions of leases for State Lands; and

(iv) strengthen the National Remote Sensing Centre at Bigara with qualified technicians and

support staff, updated equipment and software to bring it back to full functionality.

7.2.2 The National Remote Sensing Centre

The original aim of the National Remote Sensing Centre is to develop strategies towards sustainable

development and the optimal utilisation of natural resources of Mauritius based on a systematic

inventory of the available resources using the Remote Sensing technology (spatial data) and other

ancillary information in a Geographic Information System (GIS). Such information associated with

area specific potential, problem and socio-economic constraints, can be useful to generate site-

specific recommendations for a more orderly planning of agricultural development.

The major objectives in this regard are to:

(i) generate various thematic maps of natural resources on 1:250,000 scale in digital formats;

(ii) identify the potentials and problems of land, water and socio-economic parameters;

(iii) integrate thematic information and socio-economic data for generation of action plans; and,


(iv) generate plans, maps and tools for:

Watershed development and protection

Land Capability

Land Use Change analysis

Environmental / Climate Change impact analysis

Monitoring of land degradation /erosion/land slide.

In order to revive the National Remote Sensing Centre and help it meet its objectives, the following

is envisaged:

(i) upgrading existing software and hardware;

(ii) re-deployment of trained staff back to operate the Centre;

(iii) provision of support staff for ground-truthing, etc.

(iii) soliciting technical expertise from India to oversee and guide the operation of the Centre;

(iv) arranging for continuous, up-dated satellite data from the local receiving station and other

commercial sources.

7.3 Research and Advisory Services

7.3.1 Research

FAREI is responsible for conducting applied research in respect of non-sugar crops covering

horticultural production, protection from pests and diseases, post-harvest management and agro-

processing wherever feasible. FAREI is also responsible for research on livestock production and

veterinary research, although the latter has been unmanned for a few years now. Its research and

technology exchange are primordial to lead the improvement in productivity and raising production

levels towards food security. While research will still strive for higher productivity, it will now have

to consider as well issues relating to sustainability of the agricultural sector, climate-smart practices

and higher food safety standards. Biofarming will require special attention along all its dimensions.

It is therefore all the more important to maintain the investment in crop and livestock research, and

to consolidate their linkages to extension/advisory services so that new knowledge is effectively

transferred to the farming community.

It is imperative also that the Animal Health sections at FAREI be fully staffed, all the more because

of the impending transfer of animal health care and artificial insemination services to FAREI in the

wake of reforms at the Agricultural Services.

7.3.2 Advisory Services

Small holder farmers and agro-entrepreneurs in Mauritius require sustained advisory and training

support so that they can take advantage of knowledge, technologies and services to remain

competitive in their business. The opportunity to develop a new generation of agro-entrepreneurs is

more than ever a strategic choice. In this context a human resource developing programme

addressing continuous and adapted capacity building of all operators along the value chain of the

crop sector is our aim. Training facilities established regionally on model farms and at the Farmers

Training School will be operating towards this goal in addressing farmers, processors, workers and

agro-entrepreneurs.

In addition to these, the approach will henceforth be more customised for the individual farmers. The

‘one size fits all’ approach is not effective for innovative and business-oriented farmers. Their

interest covers from mere technical issues to farm management and business decision-making.

Besides, the drive for biofarming will require that farmers have a more intimate knowledge of the

eco-system and a better understanding of integrated crop management principles, which will be new

and complex to most farmers. This situation will require an even closer linkage between research

specialists and extension, and ultimately a special effort by extension agents for technology transfer


to farmers. In some instances, extension should now shift its attention from the level of individual

farmer to the community level, as for example in area-wide pest management.

7.4 Training of Farmers

The agricultural sector is undergoing major transformations with the need for investment in modern

technologies for intensifying production, to ensure food security and consumer demand for

agricultural products that are produced in a safe and sustainable way. To meet these challenges, the

FAREI has resolutely invested over the years in training capacity both in terms of infrastructure and

equipment at its farmer Training School / regional training facilities and capacity building of its staff

(training of trainers). This capacity building programme aims at a knowledge based agriculture

where professional producers and workers are able to produce more and better within a sustainable

context.

A number of innovative steps have been identified to achieve the goals namely:

Support to target farmer groups (including women) by commodity, problem areas and

objectives with reference to resource profile studies. Group meetings, on farm demonstrations,

training and publications;

To incorporate a module on Agro-entrepreneurship and Business Plan Preparation for existing

and prospective entrepreneurs in the field of agri-business;

Training courses focusing on increasing agricultural productivity and sustainability of the

farming systems among which the eco-system, Good Agricultural/Husbandry Practices, post-

harvest management, food safety and quality;

Building capacity of staff on new topics climate change, climate compliance, energy audits, low

carbon footprint and carbon sequestration; permaculture; traceability; cluster management; and

facilitation /governance of value chains; area-wide pest control.

Entrepreneurship development training courses to focus on potential agri-business

opportunities, project feasibility, sustainable production, standards and norms;

Job oriented award vocational training courses to meet increasing demand for a trained and

skilled workforce. Focus will be on competency development in line with the industry’s

modernization and the adoption of more sophisticated technologies. It will ensure the

‘revalorisation’ and professionalization of agricultural jobs and availability of a skilled labour

pool to meet specific human resource gap. Training will target unemployed, skilling of

retrenched workers for improved employability and upgrading existing workforce;

Training needs assessment of major stakeholders on a regular basis in order to better customise

their training;

The use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in producing and disseminating

knowledge to all stakeholders from production to marketing - The use of “Open and Distance

Learning” modes (ODL) has been developed with the assistance of the Commonwealth Of

Learning to target new agro entrepreneurs in agri-business. This will help to fill the information

and knowledge gaps, and help to boost the sector forward.

Exchange programmes to gather international experience and exposure to novel technologies;

and

The re-introduction of the Technology Introduction and Diffusion Scheme (TIDS).

7.5 2014 Census of Agriculture

Exceptionally, a Census of Agriculture was carried out in 2014 by Statistics Mauritius with

assistance from FAO. It follows the last one run in 1940.

The main objectives of the 2014 Census of Agriculture were to provide important information on the

organisational structure of farms at geographic level for better and informed decision making (e.g.

farm size, land use, land tenure, crop area harvested, presence of irrigation, livestock numbers, farm


labour as well as the number of holdings with each crop and livestock type); to improve estimates on

the contribution of agriculture for the economy; and to provide information on food security.

Highlights based on a preliminary analysis are available at

http://statsmauritius.govmu.org/English/Publications/Pages/Census-of-Agriculture-2014.aspx.

Statistics Mauritius is now undertaking a detailed analysis and evaluation of the census data

including estimates for sectors not covered (viz. sugarcane and tea). A consolidated report and

thematic analysis of the data with respect to gender, land and livestock are expected by end 2015. As

this Census report comes after a long period, it would be useful to compare its data with the current

statistics regularly produced by SM, especially those which are derived from administrative reports.

This census 2014 is nonetheless a major step forward, and will provide a baseline, a valuable tool for

long-term planning and monitoring the evolution of agriculture, if only the effort is renewed on a

regular basis, say every 10 years. A survey conducted at mid-term will also be useful to update the

statistics.

7.6 Agricultural Production and Market Information

The Agricultural Production and Market Information System (APMIS) project was setup by the

FAREI to provide farmers and stakeholders access to information mainly related to production, area

cultivated and market prices of local food-crops. Constructed in collaboration with farmers and

stakeholders and with a simple and user-friendly medium for information dissemination, the APMIS

was officially launched in October 2010. The system covers a sufficiently long period of data that is

useful for modelling, forecasting, trend analysis and comparisons.

Similarly, some basic livestock information is also available through the system. Mauritius can be

considered as one of the rare African country having crop production data available at monthly

interval for the whole country and near-to-real-time market price information accessible at no cost.

A number of farmers’ training in the use of the interactive system have been carried and the training

is on-going. Thus, farmers having internet facilities can access the system on their own or assisted by

a family member. For others, a desktop computer is available in regional centers where they may be

assisted by officers.

The system will be upgraded to capitalise on novel communication tools, namely with:

data capture at field level using mobile devices.

developing decision-support tools for field officers to advise farmers and entrepreneurs;

operating a dedicated service for entrepreneurs of hydroponics and orchard;

documenting opportunities for post-harvest and the transformation sector; and

adapting the APMIS following the forthcoming operation of the auction/wholesale

market.

However, information needs extend beyond APMIS. FAO estimates post-harvest losses and food

wastage in agriculture each at about 30% on a global scale. No estimates are available for Mauritius.

A proper estimation must be made of these losses and wastage for priority crop or livestock

operations. Locating the sources of wastage and loss, and arresting them can lead to more effective

use of resources and ultimately reflect in higher productivity and cost-effectiveness at farm level.

Similarly, farmers face production risks, which reflects ultimately in reduced income for their

families. This can have serious, negative impact on nutrition for themselves and their family. In such

a case, it becomes important to think of food security not merely as the national food trade balance

but also at the household level where food security depends on income and affordability. With

climate change looming ahead, it becomes more important to have regular surveys of the socio-

economic status, income, household food security and welfare of farmers can be monitored.

7.7 ICT for effective agricultural knowledge management

In a context of optimising resources, need for cost effective service, changing behaviour of our client

who now has different priorities and communication channels, ICTs offer the institution the capacity

to work smarter, enhance agricultural extension outreach and to interact in new ways with farmers.

http://statsmauritius.govmu.org/English/Publications/Pages/Census-of-Agriculture-2014.aspx


Over the years, FAREI has offered ICT based services among which the SMS Disease Alert to

registered growers and the On-line Plant Disease Diagnosis for rapid diagnosis and recommendation

for control. With the increasing accessibility and lower cost of ICT, FAREI will further exploit

ICT’s potential to ensure effective technology/information transfer for agricultural development and

food security, and to raise farmers’ productivity generally. In particular, focus will be on mobile

technologies, collaborative information sharing platforms and e-learning with multi-media based

Open and Distance Learning (ODL) materials which offer the advantage of ‘flexible’ learning i.e. at

one’s own pace and place.

7.8 Mechanisation

Small-scale foodcrop and livestock production are still dependent on traditional, labour-intensive

practices. There is a lack of easily accessible opportunities for mechanisation. Indeed, mechanisation

services can provide new opportunities for agri-business if the necessary incentives were in place. In

that respect there is need to develop a mechanisation strategy, incentive packages as well as business

models for the provision of mechanised services to farmers.

7.9 Gender

According to the Digest of Statistics 2013, the agricultural sector employed a significant number of

women, some 17,200, representing some 38% of total employment in agriculture. The 2009 National

Livestock Census reports the number of women involved in livestock production activities on a

permanent and casual basis at 3,683. Many are still active rearing dairy cattle, goats and sheep on

small scale. As regards entrepreneurship, women favour agro-processing activities at cottage level

which unfortunately develop rarely into full-fledged businesses. For most women, such activities

allow them substantial time to take care of other activities and home care. Many of them are heads of

households, often single parents. Anything that improves small-scale livestock rearing and

processing of agricultural produce will therefore help women more. FAREI’s Women’s Unit under

Extension and Training has offered good service over the last ten years, but needs now to steer

women into real businesses. The Unit should now showcase its success stories and role models. If

efforts and technologies are carefully targeted, they can have considerable benefits both in

productivity and in personal welfare of women.

7.10 Youth

The local population comprises a high proportion of young people, and it is a challenge for those

with limited education or training to find gainful employment. But few are willing to take up

employment in agriculture, more so in livestock rearing or start up an activity of their own. More

recently though, new incentive schemes were devised to create an environment favouring the

entrepreneurial approach to farming, which has rekindled the interest of some youth. This has been

possible by, inter alia, facilitation of access to resources such as land for fodder cultivation /pasture

and finance for purchase of stock; knowledge, technical skills and mechanical aids for modern

farming; and support to design business plans for profitable agri-business.

Many NGOs are providing vocational training to youth who have failed in the primary school

system, mostly coming from poor families. They provide basic information and skills for various

purposes ranging from improving employability to occupational therapy. Even the prison authorities

are now providing training (mainly in livestock rearing) to some categories of inmates to assist with

their rehabilitation. Their target audience /beneficiaries represent a pool of untapped potential for

agricultural labour or entrepreneurship. FAREI should build special programmes to arouse their

interest.

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8. INSTITUTIONS

Although the crop producers, livestock keepers and the agro-processors will be the engine for growth

and development in the non-sugar sector, the public sector needs to provide the framework for them

to play their roles as well as leadership, policies and supporting interventions that will enhance their

action in the field. In that context, several institutions operating under the MAIFS will require a

review of their roles and a re-orientation of their actions to better respond to the new challenges

faced by this sub-sector.

Recent organisational changes have been implemented to bring together FARC and AREU under

FAREI for economy and better efficiency; and NAPRO has been set up to perform control and

regulatory functions previously performed by the Tobacco Board, the Tea Board and the Mauritius

Meat Authority. More reforms are necessary in other key institutions, namely the Agricultural

Services, the Agricultural Marketing Board and the Mauritius Meat Authority for which preliminary

studies have been completed.

Hereunder is a brief presentation of public institutions involved with the non-sugar sector, with an

emphasis on those needing reforms. However, reform or not, all are expected to re-visit the roles and

strategies and align their actions to better support the farming community going forward.

8.1 Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security (MAIFS).

The Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security (MAIFS) is the Ministry entrusted with

responsibility for all matters pertaining to Agriculture, and decides on overall policies and

agricultural development generally. A number of institutions involved in crop and livestock

development operate under the overall guidance of the Ministry.

8.1.1 Agricultural Services (AS)

8.1.1.1 Current status

Under the leadership of the CAO, the Agricultural Services (AS) is the technical arm of the MAIFS

for its regulatory and policy functions as well as for provision of miscellaneous services to the

farming community. These services are meant to support the non-sugar sector, enhancing food

production and food security, and include agricultural input supply e.g. seeds and breeding stock;

veterinary care and livestock services; veterinary drugs, plant protection services, pest and disease

control; and advice on land use and agricultural projects.

8.1.1.2 Proposals for re-structuring of Agricultural Services

In 2014, the FAO made proposals for the re-structuring of AS into a Department, which will

concentrate on regulatory and control functions. The aim is to attain higher operational efficiency,

better service delivery, reduce operational cost and higher cost effectiveness. The changes in its

structure and function are meant to enhance national food and nutrition security and safety, increase

productivity of the food crop and livestock sectors, and provide an enabling environment for the

intensification and sustainable development of the agricultural sector.

8.1.1.3 New responsibilities for AS

The Agricultural Services will have focus on policies, planning and programme development,

monitoring and evaluation, analytical services, surveillance and enforcement, follow up on

international and regional obligation and sustainability of food and the agricultural sector. It will

provide a regulatory framework and an enabling environment for the intensification and sustainable

development of the food and agricultural system, including the agro-industry sector.

These are priority areas to be covered:

Formulation of policy frameworks and action plans

Ensuring the highest standards of food safety and bio-security measures;

Promotion of economic, social, environmental and structural change in the development of

crops, livestock and agro industry;

Regulation and quality control for agricultural inputs, produce and products;


Accreditation of laboratories for food and animal health;

Management and control of pests and diseases through crop protection and quarantine

services;

Management and conservation of the natural resource base for agriculture and livestock

development;

Providing guidance to increase the national self-sufficiency;

Regulating agricultural resources and the country's germplasm from being transferred out or

from extinction;

Protection of new plant varieties and the property rights of plant breeders;

Crop quality compliance and certifications of farms for quality and safety;

Quality control and certification of seeds and seed quality;

Development of standards, methodology and guidelines for competitiveness of agriculture;

Planning and evaluation of the policies and directions of agricultural development.

These involve fundamental changes in operations which will require new roles and competencies for

staff. The transition phase must be managed carefully to ensure that the transfer of resources and

responsibilities to other service providers is smooth and that no disruption occurs in the supply of

essential services and inputs to the farming community. A Re-organisation Committee comprising of

key stakeholders under the leadership of MAIFS could oversee this transition.

8.1.2 Forestry Services

The Forestry Service, headed by the Conservator of Forests is responsible for the management of the

State Forest Lands including ‘native’ forests and Nature Reserves for the protection of the

ecosystem. It has to contend with increasing pressure for conversion to unrelated activities. Its main

activities are shifting to soil, water and biodiversity protection as well as raising awareness about

forest conservation and protection. These are in keeping with the new roles of forests in the

mitigation of climate change impacts, and should be re-enforced. More details appear at chapter 5.

8.1.3 National Parks and Conservation Service

NPCS was established in 1994 under Section 8 of the Wildlife & National Parks Act 1993. It is

the government’s adviser on all matters relating to terrestrial flora and fauna conservation, and

works to protect and conserve biodiversity for future generations. Under its Director, NPCS, it

strives for their sustainable management and restoration through in-situ and ex-situ conservation,

ecosystem restoration, public awareness, promotion of ecotourism, research and implementation

of international conventions. More details appear at chapter 6.

8.1.4 National Agricultural Products Regulatory Office (NAPRO)

NAPRO was set up under the National Agricultural Products Regulatory Office Act 2013, operating

as a division of Ministry of Agro-Industry & Food Security and mandated to control and regulate the

import, export, production and sale of meat, tea, tobacco and derived products as well as their

preparation, processing, packing and manufacturing. It also regulates the activities and the premises

related to slaughtering of animals, and determines the sale price for tea / tobacco leaves.

It is empowered to license operators of meat shop, slaughterhouse, tannery; import and storage of

meat and meat products; venison dealers and retailers; and cultivators, manufacturers, importers and

exporters of tea and tobacco.

8.1.5 Small Farmers Welfare Fund

The Fund has been created to promote the economic and social welfare of small farmers and their

families. It registers farmers and can set up schemes and projects or create special funds in line with

its policy. Among its schemes:

http://www.gov.mu/portal/sites/moasite/nationalpark/wlnp_act.htm


the Agricultural Calamities Solidarity Scheme (ACASS) designed to provide financial support

to small planters on crop losses caused by cyclones, drought or excessive rainfall, and to small

breeders on death of animals caused by disease;

the Compost Subsidy Scheme whereby free compost is provided to small registered farmers

(up to a maximum of 1 ton/arpent) to enable farmers utilizing non chemical fertilizers

(compost) to improve the quality of agricultural lands for sustainable agriculture, reduce

production costs and promote production of chemical free agricultural products for the benefit

of consumers;

the Calf Productivity Incentive Scheme whereby a cash incentive of MUR 2,500 per calf is

payable to breeders for calves they have successfully bred up to three months, for a maximum

of 30 weaned calves per year;

pre-market Test and Certification Scheme;

certifications to small farmers for VAT refund on the purchase of agricultural equipment so as

to encourage farmers adopt modern technologies.

Whilst the concern for farmer welfare is laudable, there is unfortunately no data about the socio-

economic conditions of the farming community. This gap must be addressed as a matter of priority

so that the impact of policies on farmers’ income and well-being may be better appreciated.

8.1.6 Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare

Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW) replaces the Mauritius Society for the Prevention of

Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA). The objects and functions of the MSAW have been broadened as they

include not only the catching and disposal of stray dogs but also of stray cats, humane education and

the prevention of cruelty to animals, the promotion of the welfare and good treatment of animals.

Recent cases of ill-treatment of animals have received world-wide coverage via social media and

even protest marches here. Elsewhere, concern over animal welfare extends to farm animals and

animal rights to such a point that management needs to adapt. Accordingly, a survey of the situation

on local farms would be a useful first step before farmers are sensitised on animal welfare.

8.1.7 Mauritius Meat Authority (MMA)

The Meat Authority was established by the Meat Act 1974. It regulates the fresh meat market. Its

main activities are slaughter, dressing and transportation of cattle, goats, pigs, sheep and deer meat to

markets. Its functions are to ensure that slaughter is done in line with hygienic, sanitary and

environmental norms, and that only carcasses fit for human consumption are released for sale.

Among the forthcoming initiatives, there is a provision for new slaughter facilities in keeping with

EU norms, and the operation of meat shops on its premises for the benefit of consumers,

strengthening to track and combat illegal slaughter; advocacy for the acquisition of a ‘livestock

carrier’ by the authorities to ensure fair competition for import of animals.

8.1.8 Irrigation Authority

The Irrigation Authority has been set up under the Irrigation Authority Act No. 39 of 1978 and

functions for the preparation of schemes for irrigation of specific areas; to implement and manage

irrigation projects and to do all other acts incidental thereto; and to undertake research into the

optimum use of water made available for irrigation.

IA is contributing towards food security by providing irrigation facilities to some 500 ha of lands

and producing some 15,000 tonnes vegetables/onions. Its main activities of the Irrigation Authority

include feasibility studies for new irrigation projects; design, construction, supervision and

implementation of irrigation projects; operation and maintenance of irrigation projects; provision of

irrigation at subsidised rates and other incentives to planters; and advice to planters on matters

related to irrigation and water management.

Given the impending rise of ambient temperature, crops will face higher risks of water stress, and the

availability of irrigation becomes all the more critical for successful cropping. More irrigation

schemes, more water storage and a more rational use of irrigation water will be required. Besides,

whenever it is available, water will need to be used more rationally and efficiently. Hence the need


for research on conversion of systems for more efficient water use as well as tooling and technical

training of farmers in crop water scheduling and budgeting. Rainwater harvesting from rooftops and

small-scale structures for in-field rain-water collection should be promoted more forcefully.

8.1.9 Agricultural Marketing Board (AMB)


The Agricultural Marketing Board (AMB) was established in 1964 under the Mauritius Agricultural

Marketing Act of 1963 as a measure to promote diversification of agriculture. Its mission is to

maximize consumer satisfaction by providing high quality, innovative products and services reliably

and cost effectively. AMB is there to encourage local production of as much of the country's food

requirements as is economically feasible; to ensure that marketing costs are at a minimum, consistent

with satisfying consumer demand; to limit price fluctuations in line with consumer preferences; and

to operate its installations and other resources with maximum efficiency for the benefit of producers

and consumers.

8.1.9.2 Reforms anticipated

Following a study in 2013 and recent consultations with stakeholders, actions are envisaged to

broaden AMB’s scope of business while maintaining its social role:

Cross Border Initiative

AMB to extend its present MOU’s with Rodrigues, India, South Africa to Seychelles,

SADC, CAADP/COMESA and IOR to find alternative source of supply for food security

reasons

AMB will seek the possibility of re-exporting goods onto the African continent.

Seeds Marketing : To extend range of seeds from potato, onion bean and garlic seeds to new

variety of onion and other seeds in the horticulture.

Contract Farming: To establish contract with the private sector including cooperatives for the

guaranteed supply of products such as potatoes, onions and garlic at agreed prices.

Review of legal framework to allow for the extension of its product range to new products

such as saffron, garlic paste, fried onions and products in processed forms; provisions for

penalty; and control over retail pricing.

Opening of new retail outlets : upgrading of its retail outlets and extending the range of

products on sale, after due comparison of new outlets with appointed dealers.

Storage Capacity

Upgrading of its facility at Cluny will continue, to include:

the renovation of the cold rooms and refrigeration system at Cluny;

building a dedicated warehouse for storage of garlic seeds; and

the conversion of 2 dryers into cold rooms for storage of an additional 600 tonnes Onion.

Recruitment

Recruitment to have its necessary staff complement. To that effect, the extension of its

administrative building will be necessary to accommodate additional staff.

National Wholesale Market

AMB is on board for the setting up of National Wholesale Market. AMB will manage facilities

such as handling area, weighbridge, maintenance, supervision of auction, price fixing

mechanism, financial operations while out-sourcing others such as cleaning, waste disposal,

composting; and renting out space for service providers such as banking institutions, fertiliser

shops, hypermarkets, value-addition enterprise.


8.1.10 Food and Agriculture Research and Extension Institute


FAREI was established in 2014 through the FAREI Act 2013 to take over the functions of the Food

and Agricultural Research Council (FARC) and the Agricultural Research and Extension Unit

(AREU) as part of reforms to ensure cost-effective and quality services, and optimise human

resources.

It has the responsibility to conduct research in non-sugarcane crops, livestock, agro-forestry and to

provide an extension service to farmers. Its mission is to support and implement priority research,

development and training programmes and appropriate technologies for food security and to enhance

competitiveness, sustainability and stakeholder equity across the agri-food value chains.

Its objectives include:

i. Introduce, develop and promote novel technologies in the food and non-sugar agricultural

sector within a sustainable framework;

ii. Co-ordinate, promote, and harmonise priority research activities in the non-sugar agricultural,

food production and forestry sectors;

iii. Promote and encourage agricultural and agri-business development through the setting up of

agricultural youth clubs, agricultural women clubs and agricultural entrepreneur clubs; and

iv. Promote dissemination and practical application of research results.

To these ends, the institute implements strategic and adaptive research with participation of

stakeholders to meet national requirements for improved farm productivity and income. It also seeks

to ensure rapid transfer of innovative practices developed into effective production systems for the

benefit of growers, consumers and the environment.

8.1.10.2 Reforms

As a corollary to re-structuring of AS, FAREI will be entrusted those services being dropped by AS.

Its organisational structure may have to be adjusted, its recurrent budget and human resource pool

enlarged, and new competencies acquired. Its livestock sections in particular will need to be

strengthened.

8.2 Service Delivery Improvement

For MAIFS to meet its objectives and targets for which it is committed, it is imperative that service

delivery by its agencies meets some minimum standards. Indeed, one expects that these minima

should improve over time making these institutions more efficient and more effective. Accordingly,

each institution should select and improve their important services which have a direct impact on

farmers and the general public. Indicators will have to be defined but should cover such criteria as

Ease of access, Timeliness, Cost and Value for money, Availability of information, Courtesy,

Openness and Transparency, Channels for complaint and Means of redress for complainants, etc.

Accordingly, it will be useful for each institution to examine its services and develop a Service

Delivery Improvement Plan, spread over a number of years. Targets shall be realistic but challenging

nonetheless. Progress can be monitored quarterly and the plan evaluated annually.

8.3 Consolidated databases

With the ready availability of IT tools, most institutions have established their own individual

database of the farmers they service and for other users such as applicants for permits and licenses.

In many instances, these refer to one and the same entity. They carry duplicate information which

are often out of phase. Accordingly, there is need for a central database of farmers as well as of users

of services dispensed by these institutions. Such a system could eventually cater for registration of

producers. Due care is however required over data security and privacy issues.


8.4 Monitoring and Evaluation

In most institutions, a system of monitoring work performance is already in place with staff

submitting work plans and eventually regular reports of their actual implementation. Generally, staff

are amply accountable for their work plans.

However, the system is under-developed. It focuses mainly on inputs and activities, and occasionally

outputs. It rarely looks beyond i.e. at outcomes or objectives, which could eventually feed into an

analysis of impact in their respective sector. This is all the more difficult since the

interventions/schemes/projects associated with the officers’ work have not been designed with the

measurement of performance in mind. There is thus no baseline to assess outcomes at user/ farmer

level and no end-of-project assessment programmed to verify whether the objectives have been

attained or to draw lessons for scaling up or otherwise in the future. Often, no exit strategy is

defined.

When evaluations are directed at the full impact of interventions rather than just the immediate

outputs, they can indeed help to assign causality between inputs and real outcomes. Thus, for a

proper evaluation, the interventions should be examined for their relevance, efficiency, effectiveness,

impact or sustainability. Evaluations can provide the reasons for success or failure of

projects/schemes/policies, and help draw meaningful lessons and recommendations for on-going or

future interventions.

However, evaluations have to be planned ahead since they imply the definition of indicators, setting

of targets and timeframes, and additional data collected through surveys, interviews, observation etc.

for baselines and verification of results. As evaluation involves in-depth data collection and analysis,

it is consequently undertaken only a few times during the project life or when it is completed.

Unfortunately, it is observed that evaluation of performance and feedback from farmers are not

frequently practiced by institutions. To correct this state of affairs, and for all to maintain focus on

results as opposed to mere activities and outputs, a Results-Based-Management (RBM) approach can

be effective. All institutions should thus be required to internalise the Project Cycle Management

(PCM) guidelines in planning their interventions and activities. This will ensure a proper analysis of

problems, definition of objectives, a coherent logic of intervention together with matching, verifiable

indicators for monitoring of progress, and evaluations for the measurement of outcome and impact.

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9. LEGISLATION

A major role of MAIFS is to provide a policy and regulatory framework for the agricultural sector.

These help to guide projects and other interventions, to clarify policies for the benefit of the farming

community, and to develop the necessary legislative basis and regulations to underpin and facilitate

implementation of policies and activities in the sector.

9.1 Legislation in the non-sugar crop sub-sector

Hereunder are some recent legislations of immediate relevance to the non-sugar sub-sector, with

indications of possible amendments.

National Agricultural Products Regulatory Office Act 2013

NAPRO has taken over the functions and activities of the Tobacco Board set up under the

Tobacco Production and Marketing Ordinance of 1930, the Tea Board set up under the Tea

Industry Control Act of 1975, and the regulatory functions and certain powers of the Mauritius

Meat Authority, set up under the Meat Act of 1974.

Some amendments may soon become necessary to enable new tea producers to operate and trade

on the local market.

Given the drive for bio-farming, it would be fitting to consider the mandatory registration and

the licensing of farmers engaged in specific activities like for other trades. This would facilitate

their certification and any verification that they adhere to agreed codes of practice and meet

minimum standards for traceability.

Food and Agricultural Research & Extension Institute Act 2013

FAREI was established in 2014 through the FAREI Act 2013 to take over the functions of the

Food and Agricultural Research Council (FARC) and the Agricultural Research and Extension

Unit (AREU) for economy and operational efficiency.

Here again, some amendments may become necessary for FAREI to accommodate new

responsibilities that may accrue as a result of reforms at the Agricultural Services.

Seeds Act 2013

This Act provides for registration of varieties of seeds, seed testing, seed inspection and

certification of any seed. It establishes a National Plant Varieties and Seeds Office (NPVSO)

within the Ministry responsible for agriculture and a National Plant Varieties and Seeds

Committee. It thus regulates the seed business in order to ensure that high quality seeds are

supplied to growers.

NPVSO shall:

i. regulate the cultivation, production, trade, exportation and importation of seeds of any

variety of any kind of plant;

ii. be responsible for the enforcement of the Act.

The Committee shall:

i. advise the Minister on national policies relating to the cultivation, production, trade,

exportation and importation of seeds of any variety of any kind of plant;

ii. guide and supervise NPVSO in the enforcement of the Act;

iii. make recommendations to the Minister for the improvement of the seed regulatory

system;

iv. make recommendations to the Minister on the release of any variety in Mauritius.

The Act also provides rules for the internal and external trade in seeds, places restrictions on

importation of seed; registration of varieties; and provides for the maintenance of a National

Variety List. It is important now to establish the regulatory, institutional and technical

frameworks for implementation of this Seed Act (2013).


Preparations and capacity building for activities under the Act are currently receiving technical

assistance from IFAD for:

Developing the full complement of regulations to implement the Act;

Establishing the National Plant Varieties and Seed Office (NPVSO) to implement the

provisions of the Act;

Building capacity for seed testing, seed certification and VCU/DUS testing;

Preparation of a National Seed Strategy for the development of the seed sector; and

Creating opportunities for planters to become professionals in seed business.

Plant Protection Act 2006

National Plant Protection Office (NPPO) has the overall responsibility to ensure law

enforcement on plant protection matters, as per provisions made under the Plant Protection Act

2006. The Office is mandated to protect the country from the introduction of exotic pests and

diseases through its regulatory activities. It has established bio-security measures with the

objective of allowing safe movement of plant and plant products in international trade.

In recent years, several new pests have been recorded in Mauritius which has raised concern

among professional farmers and backyard growers alike. It is expected that such new

introductions will increase in the future, and accordingly enforcement becomes all the more

necessary. To that effect, resources must be strengthened for more effective border control, pest

surveillance and the rapid containment of new pests.

Chemical Fertilisers Control Act 1980

The law controls the trade of chemical fertilisers, the conditions relating to containers, label and

prohibitions for their marketing, and their chemical composition. It also provides for sampling

inspection and specifies the sampling schemes to verify their composition is within acceptable

limits of variation or the presence of foreign matter and other substances deleterious to the soil

and to the plant.

Lately, organic composts have been produced and marketed on large scale. Rhizobium and

Mycorrhiza fungi are known inoculants that one can expect to take off with bio-farming. Other

growth enhancers, plant foods and supplements have also been introduced lately that purport to

boost plant productivity. Some contain dyes, pigments and colorants claimed to enhance the

colour and freshness of produce.

Being given the expected increased use of organic fertilizers and the growing concern of

consumers over food safety, it would be appropriate to amend the legislation to encompass these

new forms of fertilizers.

Dangerous Chemicals Control Act 2004

This Act provides for the prevention of damage to health and to the environment caused by

dangerous chemicals and for better protection of the workers, members of the public and the

environment against dangerous chemicals, among which chemical pesticides are prominent for

the agricultural sector.

With the growing concern of consumers over pesticide residues in food products and the renewed

interest for alternative pest control methods, new products such as bio-pesticides have come to the

fore. Dyes and colorants are also known to have been used to enhance the appearance of fresh

produce. Other chemicals such as growth promoters and inhibitors, sprout inhibitors and ripeners

are also in use. Their import, trade and usage must now be brought under control of the Act.

In spite of the Act, there is misuse of pesticides mainly because there is no enforcement

mechanism so as to ensure that farmers are using pesticides according to recommendations.

Accordingly, the following are proposed:

i. new regulations to be introduced under the Act to cater for inspection, information, guidance

and control on:

the proper and safe use of pesticides by farmers; and

pesticides residues on vegetables, fruits and any other agricultural material

such as soil, livestock feed or fodder.


ii. a new Pesticide Unit to be created under the new regulation to provide for:

collection of samples of harvested fruits and vegetables from farmers’

fields and from markets for analysis of pesticide residues;

monitoring pesticide use by farmers; and

issue of warnings/ warrants to offenders.

Genetically Modified Organisms Act 2004

The Act provides for measures to regulate the responsible planning, development, production,

use, marketing and application of genetically-modified organisms. It provides for the control of

the production and introduction of organisms, the genes or genetic material of which has been

modified in a way that does not occur naturally through mating or natural recombination. For this

purpose, it establishes a National Biosafety Committee and defines powers of the Permanent

Secretary of the Ministry responsible for agriculture.

With the rapid development and adoption of Genetically Modified (GM) crops worldwide, it is

quite possible that Mauritius is already importing either GM feed or food or seeds of GM crops.

As the subject is a sensitive one comprising of controversial issues related to human health,

environment or biodiversity, the full promulgation of the Genetically Modified Organisms Act

2004 is required in order to regulate the potential introduction of GMOs in Mauritius.

Organic Agriculture

With the technical assistance of FAO, national capabilities will be strengthened for the practice of

organic agriculture. Amendments will be brought to legislation; secondary regulations and

strategic development plans will be drafted; training manuals will be developed and training

delivered for farmers, researchers, programme managers and technicians. These would build the

institutional framework and the inspection system for Organic Agriculture.

Establishment of a Plant Variety Protection System

A Plant Variety Protection (PVP) system will be set up for implementation of the forthcoming

Plant Breeders’ Rights Act, which will encourage the development and introduction of new

improved plant varieties in Mauritius; it will also enable the country to participate in the SADC

Harmonised Seed Regulatory System and benefit from related opportunities.

9.2 Livestock legislation

Animal Welfare Act 2013

The objectives of the new Act are to, among others, protect animals from distress, pain and

suffering in the best possible way; promote the welfare and good treatment of animals; and

regulate dog keeping, dog breeding and importation of certain dangerous dogs.

Concern over animal welfare now extends to farm animals and animal rights. However, education

of local farmers about animal welfare and the provisions of the law need to be introduced,

possibly through a collaboration with FAREI’s Extension.

Animal Diseases Act 1925

This Act deals with the importation, procedures, diseases of animals. It conveys power of

verification, control and quarantine of animals coming from abroad. It is the main tool for the

DVS to operate its ambulatory services for treatment of sick animals and artificial insemination.

It provides regulations for veterinary public health; inspection of animal products at the abattoir

and at import to ensure safe and wholesome meat and meat products; and certification of animal

products for export.

Various recommendations have been made as a result of a Gap Analysis conducted by the OIE in

2011, and should be considered in revising this Act. Besides, the Act focuses on the health

aspects and does not cover the production side of animal farming, which needs adjustment.


Artificial Insemination of Animals (Control) Act 1946

The Act provides regulations for controlling the practice of artificial insemination and, in

particular, for prohibiting, subject to such exemptions as may be specified in the regulations, the

distribution and sale of the semen of any such animal.

Given the recent introduction of artificial insemination for other species than cattle and the

possibility for entrepreneurs to provide such services, new regulations are warranted.

Veterinary Council Act 1991

The Council governs the registration of veterinarains and the practice of veterinary care. Its

functions include inter alia the exercise and maintenance of discipline in the practice of

veterinary surgery; the establishment of a code of practice for the veterinary profession on the

basis of professional conduct and veterinary ethics; and the handling of complaints.

Considerable interest has been expressed among the larger livestock farmers for training in

veterinary first-aid to prepare them to cope with minor surgery and treatment. This would relieve

pressure on public services and help address a common complaint over the long delays in

attending cases. Actually, such training has already been started. In the same vein, the creation of

a new grade of para-veterinarian has been evoked. These changes in the livestock sub-sector

warrant a fresh look at the Act.

Other related Acts

Livestock farmers often complain about the difficulties encountered to dispose safely of dead

animals. Now that incinerators are in operation across the country, the Animal Destruction Act of

1918 deserves a review.

Many farmers are not satisfied with the animal feed on the market, and are often keen for

verification of their composition. The enforcement of the Animal Feed Control Act 1977 should

be strengthened to handle their complaints, enable rapid tests and re-assure the community.

9.3 Legislation for Forestry and Biodiversity

The following pertain to protection of forests and natural reserves, and the conservation of

biodiversity and wildlife.

Forests and Reserves Act

Shooting and Fishing Leases Act 1966

The Wildlife and National Parks Act

The Vallée D'Osterlog Endemic Garden Foundation Act 2007

With the increasing social role of forests and biodiversity for the environment and the mitigation of

climate change, amendments are anticipated to the Forests and Reserves Act 41 of 1983 (amended

by Act No.1 and Act No. 7 of 2008) to include access and control of felling of trees and removal of

forest produce on private forest land; to increase the penalties for offences under the Act including

illegal felling of trees, littering and dumping on Reserves and State forest land; and to arrange for

more biodiversity-rich areas to be proclaimed as Nature Reserves.

More details are discussed at section 5.7 .

The work of NPCS is governed by the Wildlife and National Parks Act. To align with International

Conventions especially CITES and CBD, a new Native Terrestrial Biodiversity and National Parks

Bill is under preparation. Draft legislation is also under preparation for a Wetlands Bill.

----------


10. INTERNATIONAL & REGIONAL COLLABORATION

10.1 Mauritius benefits from collaboration with a number of international and regional organisations and

participates in a number of schemes.

Food & Agricultural Organization (FAO)

Re-organisation of Agricultural Services (AS)

Preparation for the re-organisation of AS for it to focus on policy, regulatory and control

functions, and to improve the delivery and quality of services offered to the agricultural

community and related stakeholders.

Census on Agriculture

Support provided to implement the Census on Agriculture in 2014 including training to

local staff as well as the development of an Agricultural Information System

Strengthening the seeds regulations in Mauritius

Support provided by FAO for the drafting of Regulations under the Seeds Act 2013 and for

the development of Mauritius as a Seed Hub in the region.

Besides, the Country Programming Framework 2014-2017 provides for further technical

assistance to develop strategies for farm mechanisation and related services, land management,

development of organic agriculture as well as the strengthening of agricultural statistics and

post-harvest management.

International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

Strengthening the Seed Sector

Set up the administrative and organisational arrangements for the National Plant Varieties

and Seeds Office;

Develop the National Plant Varieties and Seeds Office capacity for seed certification;

Develop national capacity for Cultivation and Use Testing (VCU) and Distinctness,

Uniformity and Stability Testing (DUS); and

Develop a National Seed Policy and Strategy.

Indian Ocean Commission

Project entitled ‘Freshwater Biodiversity in Mauritius and Rodrigues’ involving a desk-top

study, and consultations with stakeholders to develop an Action Plan, which will be

followed by the implementation of the Action Plan once it is officially approved by the

relevant local authority.

Organisation Internationale des Epizooties (OIE)

Reinforcing Veterinary Governance in Africa (VET-GOV)

The purpose of the pilot project is to improve the quality and efficiency of basic veterinary

services in Mauritius mainly by involving private veterinarian in the service delivery and

by implementing Private Public Partnerships (PPPs) through which some of the public

veterinary service activities can be handed over to private veterinarians. The project will

thus assess the effectiveness of the veterinary services provided to small breeders and to

consider the possibility of entrusting veterinary care and services to the small breeders to

private veterinarians.

African Union

Animal Resources Information System (ARIS 2)

This project aim at promoting timely data collection and reporting by Member States and to

facilitate animal resource information sharing. It is developed by African Union Inter-

African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and Mauritius is implementing this


project to improve the quality, quantity and availability of surveillance and other animal

resources information in the country.

Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP)

CAADP was established as part of New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD)

and aims to eliminate hunger reduce poverty and enhance food and nutrition in Africa

through agriculture. Mauritius has launched the CAADP and signed the National CAADP

Compact. Two Consultants have completed a stock-taking exercise of the agricultural

sector in Mauritius and will support the drafting of the CAADP Compact.

Southern Africa Development Community (SADC)

SADC Harmonised Seed Regulatory System

Mauritius acceded to the SADC MOU on Harmonised Seed Regulatory System on 7th

October 2013.

The SADC Plant Breeders’ Rights Protocol.

A common platform has been initiated on 27th November 2014 to facilitate the setting up of

the SADC Variety Release System. Member states will be able to participate as and when

their National Seed Authorities and relevant legislation are established.

EDES- Food Safety System

EDES is a cooperation programme managed by COLEACP (Europe-Africa Caribbean-Pacific

Liaison Committee) in collaboration with a consortium of European organisations specialising

in food safety. It promotes the setting up of a national risk assessment framework as a basis of

the establishment of an efficient sanitary and phytosanitary control system. Mauritius is

benefiting from EDES with regards to exports of poultry, pineapple and honey sector.


11. WAY AHEAD

11.1 Risks and Assumptions

The main risks and assumptions to the implementation of the Strategy could be summarised as

follows:

Political and economic situation;

Capacity of absorption for the management of developmental projects; and more

importantly to switch to results-based management;

Mobilising adequate financial resources from the national budget but also

from Development Partners and international programmes and donor

agencies.

Cooperative participation of stakeholders/ farmers in the implementation of the strategy.

Cooperation and coordination among institutions within MAIFS. This has become more

critical than ever on account of the multi-disciplinary approaches required for sustainable

agriculture.

Cooperation and coordination with other Ministries, and in particular with the Ministry of

Environment which is the national focal point for climate change. Climate changes have a

direct and a significant impact on the agricultural sector as well as on natural resources such

as forests, pastures, water and biodiversity. Consequently, it is important that all departments

under MAIFS be regularly updated on commitments, developments as well as opportunities

for technical support.

11.2 Communication and Visibility

In order to introduce more transparency and eventually accountability from its affiliate institutions, it

is highly desirable that the Ministry of Agriculture 2016-2020 Strategy be widely publicised. As a

possibility, the document could be launched in a press conference where the objectives, courses of

actions, and expected results would be presented.

The MAIFS would organise a series of communication and visibility events to raise awareness of

stakeholders and the general public on the main issues of the MAIFS 2016-2020 strategy. These

could include seminars, workshops, publicity campaigns, etc. Additionally, the documents may be

circulated among Development Partners to elicit technical assistance and funding support.

A final evaluation workshop with wide participation of stakeholders should be organised at the end

of the strategy implementation period to publicise achievements and capture comments and ideas to

strategise onwards. For the general public, an exhibition would be more appropriate.

11.3 Steering and Coordination

The MAIFS is the administration entrusted with the implementation and financing of this 2016-2020

Strategy. To that effect, the Minister of Agriculture will establish a high-powered Steering

Committee (SC) for the follow-up and supervision of the strategy implementation. It shall ensure the

proper and timely execution of the provisions of this Plan in order to achieve the expected outcomes

within the scheduled timeframe. This Steering Committee will be chaired by the Permanent

Secretary of MAIFS and include the Chief Agricultural Officer and his Principal Agricultural

Officers, the Chief Executive Officer FAREI and his Assistant Directors, the Conservator of Forests,

the Director National Parks & Conservation Service, Officer-in-charge NAPRO, Chief

Operations/Executive Officers of Agricultural Marketing Board, Meat Authority and related bodies.

The Agricultural Policy Analysis Unit will be entrusted the secretariat and the coordination. It shall

ensure the regular submission of progress reports by implementing agencies as well as the

preparation and consolidation of reports, circulation of agenda and documentation for consideration

by the Steering Committee. It shall also verify that reports are not merely a narrative of activities but

provide a critical assessment of the effectiveness of programmes relative to set targets.

Following the signature and the adoption of this Strategy document, the SC will meet on a regular

basis and when needed. It shall call upon and engage technical experts and whoever deemed


appropriate and necessary from the public and the private sectors to enlighten its members. The

Steering Committee will fulfill the following duties:

Review and approve annual operational plans prepared by the relevant agencies for the

implementation of the strategy;

Review and approve the strategy implementation progress reports prepared implementing

agencies, including those activities performed under programmes and projects;

Consider reviews of programmes and projects, and approve recommendations for corrective

action as required;

Provide necessary guidance for the good implementation of the strategy and manage the risks

that may arise during the execution;

Review and approve the Strategy 2016-2020 Monitoring and Evaluation reports.

Implementing agencies shall each prepare and submit a periodic, consolidated progress report. The

latter will be based on the reports provided by their subsidiary services, departments and related

programmes and projects that include all the activities and expenditures (planned versus executed) in

addition to the problems and challenges encountered and future plans and orientations. Monitoring

and Evaluation at institutional level has been discussed at chapter 8.

It is expected that an evaluation will be arranged in 3 years i.e. a Mid-Term Evaluation, which will

appraise progress made and provide recommendations in relation to the planned activities as well as

the strategy objectives and courses of action. A second evaluation report should be run 6 months

prior to the end of this Strategy’s time-frame for similar purposes, and additionally make

recommendations on follow-up strategic orientations. The terms of reference for these evaluations

shall be prepared by APAU, but the actual evaluations are best run by independent contractors.

11.4 End word

It is believed that by the end of this Plan’s timeframe, the country would have witnessed a significant

transition into sustainable agricultural development, fully prepared to meet the challenges of food

security and safety, with Agriculture well equipped to cope with the additional risks that climate

change may present.

---------


Annex 1

Annual production (tonnes) for selected foodcrops and fruits (2009-2014)

Crop 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014*

Crucifers 7,486 7,243 8,200 7,376 7,885 7,387

Carrot 7,442 5,437 5,291 4,504 4,972 4,430

Chillies 1,227 1,322 1,383 1,466 1,487 1,670

Cucurbits 28,175 28,654 27,248 27,009 27,023 28,263

Garlic 28 24 34 98 107 163

Onion 4,855 5,799 4,898 7,098 7,772 5,912

Potato 19,828 21,709 21,561 20,442 16,451 19,404

Tomato 12,586 12,339 11,354 13,150 11,201 10,997

Ginger 616 1,356 748 1,156 991 535

Ladies Finger 1,519 1,593 909 1,001 1,098 1,381

Lettuce 920 934 906 931 1,016 1,398

Legume crops 2,368 2,564 3,246 3,058 2,781 2,550

Brinjal 2,829 2,684 3,202 3,227 3,378 3,549

Echalote 1,097 1,251 1,145 1,312 1,181 1,460

Leek 224 263 227 173 166 188

Sweet Potato 900 799 1,136 1,220 1,091 780

Eddoes 370 319 320 404 517 730

Manioc 400 449 301 500 507 466

Beet 534 748 877 558 646 638

Maize 112 328 320 413 634 625

Groundnut 587 558 499 723 431 618

Sweet Pepper 37 5 3 5 4 4

Total Foodcrops 94,140 96,378 93,808 95,824 91,339 93,148

Rice (Paddy) - - 316 831 646 N.A.

Pineapple 8,880 6,528 10,922 14,121 15,957 10,788

Banana 10,920 11,936 10,544 10,196 10,181 8,833

Grand Total 113,940 114,842 115,590 120,972 118,123 112,769

*provisional


Annex 2

Table 1: Animal Population Trend

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Cattle 6,934 6,936 7,327 7,237 7,491 6,596 7,302 7,240 6,041

Pigs 15,55

0

17,22

3 6,699

14,10

8

22,65

0 23,285

15,28

7

15,96

1

17,51

1

Goat 23,72

6

24,41

1

25,99

4

26,01

4

27,81

9 28,176

27,43

0

25,70

2

26,55

8

Sheep 1,264 1,101 1,548 2,023 2,022 1,931 2,211 2,510 2,723

Deer 70,00

0

70,00

0

70,00

0

70,00

0

70,00

0 70,000

65,00

0

65,00

0

65,00

0

Rabbit 3,400 3406 3891 5,121 4,534 3,347 3,007 2,292 1,926

Table 2: Number of Livestock Farmers

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Cattle 1716 1,700 1,758 1,157 1,123 1022 953 872 816

Pig 447 490 604 477 501 551 439 412 444

Goat 2,350 3,083 3,126 2,832 2,927 3049 2,933 2810 2653

Sheep 49 96 147 147 155 149 162 191 205

Rabbit 272 275 322 369 340 293 264 231 170


Table 3: Production Trend (tonnes)

Type 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Beef (t) 41.5 113 27.2 36.5 88.4 136.1 180.7 90 60.5

Goat meat 29.3 24 18.7 22.2 28.8 45 36 30.5 28.1

Mutton 3.1 4.0 13.3 14.2 9.4 5.1 4.6 2.6 4.3

Pork 681 511 330 428 623 650 652 615 557

Game

(including

Venison)

620 625 625 625 625 625 625 625 625

Venison 466 496 496 457 480 503 505 460 440

Rabbit 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25

Poultry (t) 36,00

0

36,00

0

42,20

0

44,20

0 46,200

47,20

0

47,40

0

46,70

0

47,50

0

Milk (M

litres) 4.02 3.5 3.3 3.4 3.6 4.0 6.0 5.0 5.0

Table 4: Per Capita Consumption of Livestock Products

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Fresh Milk (litre) 5.00 5.41 5.78 5.21 5.19 5.88 6.51 5.79

Milk (powdered,

kg)

10.2

5

10.0

0 9.73 9.78

10.2

7

10.4

7

11.2

1 9.53

Eggs (unit) 148 141 123 113 121 125 132 137

Meat and Meat

Preparations (kg)

43.0

6

45.7

4

47.4

5

48.6

2

50.1

8

51.1

4

53.8

5

53.0

6

Poultry (kg) 28.0

6

31.0

9

32.5

3

33.9

7 35.4 35.7

36.9

5

36.5

2

Meat (other than

poultry, t)

15.0

0

14.6

5

14.9

2

14.6

5

14.7

8

15.4

4

16.9

0

16.5

4


12. REFERENCES

1. Government Programme 2015 – 2019 (http://pmo.govmu.org)

2. Budget Speech 2015 – 2016 (http://budget.mof.govmu.org)

3. Vision 2020 – National Long Term Perspective Study

4. Strategic options in Crop Diversification and Livestock Sector (2007-2015)

5. Sustainable Diversified Agro-Industry Strategy for Mauritius (2008-2015)

6. Food Security Fund Strategic Plan (2008-2011)

7. Food Security Fund Strategic Plan (2013-2015)

8. Strategic Plan for the Crop Sector 2015 – 2019.

9. Moving towards a Smart Livestock Sector - 2015.

10. Mauritius CAADP Stocktaking Report 2015.

11. MAIFS website (http://agriculture.govmu.org)

12. The National Invasive Alien Species Strategy and Action Plan (2015 – 2024).

13. Strategic Plan for Enhancing the Tree Cover of Mauritius (2015 – 2019).

14. The National Biodiversity Strategic and Action Plan.

15. Final Report on National Wholesale Market under AMB management, 2014.

16. National Biodiversity Planning to Support the implementation of the CBD 2011-2020

Strategic Plan in Mauritius, UNDP project document.

17. Country Programming Framework 2014-2017 for the Republic of Mauritius. FAO

document.

18. Reorganisation and Strengthening the Governance Framework of Agricultural Services of

the Ministry of Agro Industry and Food Security, FAO report.

19. Permaculture: the foundation of nutritional security.

(author: Denis Madeleine, consulted at https://drmu.wordpress.com )

http://pmo.govmu.org/

http://budget.mof.govmu.org/

http://agriculture.govmu.org/

https://drmu.wordpress.com/

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